Big Zion School

Big Zion School. Est. 1902. , In 1902, Big Zion School was erected where Big Zion A.M.E. Zion Church sits today and remained in that location until 1925, when it moved across the street to its present site. Moses Primus, Jr., served as the principal and only teacher in 1908, and earned a salary of $18 per month. Built on land inherited from his parents, the small-framed building was about twenty feet wide and thirty feet long with no "window lights" or heating system. In 1912, William M. Rakestraw from Tuskegee Institute visited the school, and after seeing the school's condition, promised that if the opportunity arose, he would assist in obtaining a new school. Soon after, Booker T. Washington appointed Rakestraw director of the Rosenwald Fund for Montgomery County. Keeping his promise to Mr. Primus, Rakestraw ensured that Big Zion School would be the first school that he offered to help. To qualify for grants from the Rosenwald Fund, schools must adhere to a standardized plan with contributions of county and state funds to match those of the community. The people of the Big Zion Community raised $500 as their share. Members of the community donated money as well as land, construction material, and labor. , (Continued on other side) , (Continued from other side) , In the fall of 1913, a model two room school building was completed with all up-to-date seating and heating. Booker T. Washington served as the main speaker at the dedication of the Big Zion School. The first assistant teacher was assigned to Mr. Primus in 1913, and he also received his first salary increase. Washington made another visit to Big Zion School in 1914 and Mr. Rosenwald made his initial visit to the school in 1915. As the school's influence increased, it became necessary for Mr. Primus to improve himself by remaining academically accountable to the demands associated with providing African Americans with a quality education. In early 1916, he enrolled in summer courses. He spent some summers in Tuskegee and others at the State Teachers College in Montgomery, which is now known as Alabama State University. His academic pursuits continued until completion. In 1924, a third room was added to Big Zion School and another teacher was hired, for a total of three teachers. Although this was revered as a source of celebration for Mr. Primus, enrollment was lower at that time than at the school's inception. Mr. Primus remained at the school until he retired in August of 1950.