the most promising point.
About twenty-five acres of partially wooded land just beyond the eastern
boundary of the city of Austin were purchased for $5,000, the gift of
Mr. Tillotson. In the following year a charter was obtained and the work
of raising money for the building was entered upon. The funds were
finally secured, and in 1879 the foundations were laid, and the
building, 104 feet in length and 42 in depth, constructed of white
pressed brick with dress stone trimmings, rose to its five stories in
height. On the 17th of January, 1881, the school opened. Two of the five
floors were then open spaces. Eleven pupils only were enrolled at the
beginning, but the term closed in June with 107. During this year the
building was completed and named "Allen Hall," in honor of one of the
largest givers. At the opening of the fall term the beginning of the
next year, the accommodations were taxed to the utmost. In August, 1882,
the report reads, "Allen Hall is full to repletion, 100 in the boarding
department. Work cannot unfold for need of more room. Young men and
young women in the same building make an urgent appeal for a new
building."

At no time since the beginning of the second year have there been
adequate accommodations for all desiring to attend.

For ten years the institution under the name of "Tillotson Collegiate
and Normal Institute" has furnished to students from all parts of the
great State of Texas with its half million of colored people, and from
other States, and from Mexico, not only an opportunity to acquire a
thoroughly practical common-school education, but also a more extended
course to prepare students for entrance to the highest educational
institutions in the land; and a normal training course for teachers for
all positions in the public schools. Within this period of time a church
has been formed for the students of the institution and others, which
has been regularly ministered to by the president of the institution.

In the year 1888 a building for carpentry and manual instruction was
erected and a teacher was appointed for industrial training.

The picture following is that of Allen Hall as it looks down upon the
valley of the river Colorado. In every direction the views are of great
extent, and include many picturesque scenes. The State capitol--a mile
distant--and the various public buildings of Austin, are before the eye.
Since electricity has been introduced, Austin by night presents a
br