Black history in Augusta: The lasting influence of Lucy Craft Laney

By Ikia Furse-Samuels | Contributor
For those interested in the Black history of Augusta, there is one place that should be visited immediately – the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History.
By inviting all to tour her old home, the museum show cases the impactful life of Lucy Craft Laney’s leadership role in Augusta.
“Black history in Augusta is essential to me because it gives me different perspectives on our history and helps me learn more about my people,” said Zecoreiya Key, a 2017 Lucy Craft Laney graduate.
Later named after her, Laney first founded the Lucy Craft Laney Comprehensive High School in 1883 for black children. Located on Laney Walker Boulevard in Augusta, the local facility has educated thousands of students over the years.
Also known as “the mother of the children of the people,” Laney fought for educational equality and was remembered for introducing a new world of educating Black children, despite the odds set against her.
“While I was at Laney, we were taught that our school was built from the love of teaching and motivating young people of color,” said Key. “We were always taught to treat our education as our most prized possession, and that it will always be one of the most important factors for the start of our lives and careers.”
After enjoying all four years at Laney High School, alumnus and successful educator Zykeria E. Newsome said she pursued a degree in Early Childhood Education after being inspired by Laney’s efforts.