Lincoln University—Jefferson City, Missouri: The School Black Soldiers Built
As the Civil War ended, Black Union soldiers began planning for the future of freedom. Men of the 62nd and 65th United States Colored Infantry sought to establish a school where formerly enslaved people could receive an education. Their determination led to the founding of Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri. Lincoln University of Missouri
The soldiers backed that vision with their own money. Members of the 62nd contributed $5,000, and the 65th added about $1,400. These were substantial sacrifices for men whose military pay was modest. They invested in opportunities that would outlast their service. Lincoln University of Missouri
On January 14, 1866, an organizing committee formally established Lincoln Institute. Its founding principles called for an institution in Missouri that would serve emancipated African Americans and combine academic study with practical labor. Lincoln University of Missouri
The school opened on September 17, 1866, with two students. From that small beginning, it expanded its instruction and added college-level classes in 1887. Under the Second Morrill Act of 1890, it became a land-grant institution, strengthening its role in education and public service. Lincoln University of Missouri
In 1921, Missouri expanded the institution into a four-year college and renamed it Lincoln University. Graduate instruction began in 1940. In 1954, the historically Black university opened its doors to students of all races. Lincoln University of Missouri
The university’s Soldiers’ Memorial Plaza honors the men whose vision and financial contributions made the institution possible. Their legacy links military service to the ongoing work of expanding educational opportunity. Lincoln University of Missouri
Descendants of the Taken Ones—Lincoln University embodies freedom carried forward through education. Black soldiers helped defeat slavery and then pooled their earnings to prepare future generations. Their investment became a lasting institution. Thank you for your time. To support the channel. Please like, share, and subscribe, and pass this along to your family and friends. Remember: information kept to yourself is lost over time, but shared information becomes enduring knowledge. People who lose control of their history can be led to believe they never contributed anything.
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