Dorchester Academy

Dorchester Academy is a school campus and museum in Midway with several historic buildings that preserve African-American educational history. The property includes a Georgian Revival mansion and outbuildings that sit across the grounds.

The school was founded in 1869 by the American Missionary Association and offered teaching to freed African-Americans after the Civil War. It closed in 1940 after educating generations of students, but the grounds later became a training site for civil rights work.

The site shows how education became a place of resistance and hope for African-American communities. Visitors can see how spaces were used by activists to encourage people to claim their rights.

The museum is accessible by a rural road and can be visited on certain days and times when it is open. Visitors should call ahead to confirm exact hours and check if a guided tour is available.

A room on the grounds is preserved as it was when a major civil rights leader stayed there and developed important plans. The space offers insight into the personal side of this historic period.

Location: Midway

Inception: 1935

Architects: George Awsumb

Address: 8787 East Oglethorpe Highway, Midway, GA 31320

Phone: +19128842347

Website: https://dorchesteracademyia.org

GPS coordinates: 31.80150,-81.46519

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:40