St. Benedict the Moor School, Catholic school building in Lincolnville Historic District, St. Augustine, US.
St. Benedict the Moor School is a brick building constructed in the late 19th century within the Lincolnville Historic District. The structure displays architectural features typical of its era and originally served as a classroom and educational facility.
The school was established in 1898 to serve African American students during the era of racial segregation in the South. A major donor provided the funding that made its construction possible.
The school takes its name from a saint known for defending the poor and enslaved in his own time, reflecting the institution's purpose. This connection between faith and social service remains visible in how the community views this building today.
Access to the building is limited due to ongoing restoration work that began in 2006. It is best to check ahead about visiting opportunities and any restrictions before planning a visit to this location.
In 1916, three white Catholic nuns were arrested for teaching Black students but were acquitted due to legal exemptions for private schools. This incident reveals how some institutions found ways to operate outside segregation laws.
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