Book excerpt: One of the hardest-fought victories during the Civil War, the emancipation of slaves proved only to be an initial step for American blacks to enjoy this country's prized freedom. Enduring Reconstruction-era governments, Jim Crow laws, and unimaginable intimidation from bigoted groups, Southern blacks persevered through many incredible obstacles and established successful communities, schools, and businesses against tremendous odds. One such success story is Winston-Salem State University, a school with humble beginnings but a vision for education that has endured and flourished. Founded by Simon Green Atkins in 1892, the Slater Industrial School was intended to provide educational opportunities for the children of Columbian Heights, and over the years, the school expanded and evolved into a state normal school and teacher training center, becoming the first historically black college in the nation to grant degrees for teaching in the elementary grades. Possessing a rich and unique heritage, Winston-Salem State University has grown from a modest one-room schoolhouse into a premier liberal arts college. Containing over 200 black-and-white photographs, this visual retrospective celebrates the history and traditions of Winston-Salem State, highlighting the social, academic, athletic, and administrative activities of the university through the years.