Berea College (replaces marker #773, For Mountain Youth)
Marker Number 2429
County Madison
Location Berea College campus, Berea
Description Abolitionist Rev. John Gregg Fee founded Berea College in 1855 as a school dedicated to the equal education of blacks, whites, men, and women. Pro-slavery forces closed the school during the Civil War. It reopened after the conflict and remained coeducational and integrated. In 1904, the Kentucky legislature enacted the Day Law, which segregated the school.
The Day Law prohibited racial coeducation in private schools. Although Berea appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, the law remained in effect until amended in 1950. Berea College remains committed to its mission of equality and educational opportunity, emphasizing liberal arts, inclusive Christianity, service to Appalachia, & dignity and utility of all labor.
Church of Christ, Union
Marker Number 1767
County Madison
Location In front of the Church, across from Boone Tavern Hotel, Berea, KY 21
Description Founded 1853 by the Rev. John G. Fee of Bracken County on the invitation of local citizens and Cassius M. Clay, who projected an antislavery community here. Open in full equality to all races and nonsectarian, the church had a leading part in establishment of Berea College, 1855, and in cause of racial equality in this area. Presented by Congregation.
