Laurence C. Jones
(1882-1975)

Laurence Clifton Jones (1882 – 1975) was born into an affluent Midwestern Black family and graduated from the University of Iowa in 1907. The enterprising young scholar had opportunities to start a career in business, higher education, or even musical performance. Instead, he traveled to the Deep South and founded a school to educate the children and grandchildren of slaves in Mississippi. In this lesson, discover the inspiring vision that led Jones to a life of service, and meet the community members, students, teachers, and supporters who helped him build The Piney Woods School.