December 28, 1855
The story of a presentation to Nell for his efforts on behalf of Equal School Rights. The gathering is at the Southac Street church, and includes, a record of presentations to Nell, speakers extolling his efforts, and a speech by Nell. In his speech, Nell comments on the excitement with which students have accepted the closing of the colored school: “On the morning preceding their advent to the public schools, I saw from my window a boy passing the exclusive Smith School, (where he had been a pupil), and, raising his hands, he exultingly proclaimed to his companions, ‘Goodbye forever, colored school! Tomorrow we are like other Boston boys!'” ” Nell’s address was frequently interrupted by applause, especially at the mention of those anti-slavery friends who had given their aid to the cause.”
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