The Christiansburg Industrial Institute is part of a rich tradition of African American schools in the South, which began as freed slaves struggled to find education and advancement after the Civil War, and continued through the early twentieth century, when these schools were considered to be the very best opportunity available to African Americans.
CII is especially notable because of its longevity; it did not close until 1966, its connection to renowned educator Booker T. Washington, an advisor from 1895-1915, and for its size & location; industrial schools like CII were uncommon in western Virginia.
All too often the buildings associated with African American industrial schools were lost as integration (in the 1960's) led to their disuse and demolition. The one remaining building on the CII farm campus is a treasure and the Montgomery Museum is very interested in helping the CII alumni group to build public awareness of the importance of CII history and its value to our Community.
