Berea College, Private liberal arts college in Berea, Kentucky, US
Berea College is a liberal arts college in Berea, Kentucky, set among wooded hills at the edge of the Appalachian range. The campus spreads across several city blocks with brick buildings from different eras and a central lawn area where students sit between classes.
The college reopened in 1866 after the Civil War forced its closure. During Reconstruction, it became a center for educating formerly enslaved people and white mountain residents who studied together.
The name Berea comes from a biblical town and reflects the founders' religious roots. Today students work in campus workshops where they practice traditional Appalachian crafts such as weaving and woodworking.
Visitors can explore galleries and exhibition spaces during regular hours, with most areas freely accessible. A walk around campus passes several student-run shops operated by participants in the work program.
Every student receives their education without paying tuition, making the college primarily serve young people from low-income families across Appalachia. Each graduate leaves debt-free and with years of work experience from the mandatory program.
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