Cumberland Industrial School by CLIFFORD G. HOWELL

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 5, 1907

Cumberland Industrial School

By CLIFFORD G. HOWELL

This school was started five years ago in a tent. It was begun for a purpose,—that of training workers to go into the vineyard at this eleventh hour,—and I feel now that if its work and needs had been kept more prominently before the friends of this cause, it might have accomplished much more.

At a meeting a few days ago a brother from the North was present while circumstances incident to the establishment of the school were related. He said his heart was stirred by what he had heard; that the school was in need of help, and if I would go north, I would get it; that he would give five dollars toward my fare. I thought of how Brother White started on a trip without a dollar. My faith was not quite sufficient for this, and I did not see how I could go. But that night as I thought and prayed over the matter, I decided to take the five dollars and go as far as Nashville, and appeal to some of my old-time friends in the cause there, peradventure I might receive favor in their sight, and secure help for the work. It also occurred to me that I might visit many more by means of the dear old REVIEW.

Our enrolment for last year was thirty-four. We have put up an eight-room dwelling, but it must be plastered. Our second-hand buggy is broken down, and we must borrow a vehicle to meet students at the station. Our one good mule needs a mate to make a farm team. We want to procure some peach-trees and small fruit. I have greatly desired not to be burdensome to the cause I love so much, and have confidence that our enterprise will yet support both teachers and pupils; but we need assistance to place its resources in available shape. Paul wished not to be burdensome, but asked pardon for not sharing with the Corinthians his privileges in self-denial.

I know it is more blessed to give than to receive; but one of the gifts I received since coming here has been such a blessing to me, coming, as it did, from dear old Brother Loughborough, it made me feel as never before that our little work must be closely related to the great 1844 movement. Having read not long ago of a great reformatory movement among God's people, and how there seemed to be a reformation such as we witnessed in 1844, somehow my courage in God has risen, and I am girding for the last final struggle, expecting to strive lawfully till the banners of the cross are planted upon the eternal heights, and the world is lightened with the glory of the Lord.

We shall have work by which a few young men can almost or quite pay their way, while taking school work. We want those who love this cause. If you know of such, ask them to write to me. If you want to help us to help others, send us your offering, large or small. My address is Daylight, R. F. D. 2, Warren Co., Tenn.

CLIFFORD G. HOWELL.