Gillespie Selden Institute

The Gillespie Selden Institute, located in the charming town of Cordele, GA, is a historic institution that played a significant role in the education of African Americans during the tumultuous times of segregation. The institute was founded in 1912 by two dedicated African American educators, John H. Gillespie and Thomas J. Selden, with the mission to provide quality education to black students.

During the Jim Crow era, the Gillespie Selden Institute served as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the African American community. It offered academic and vocational education, as well as training in agriculture and home economics. The institute also served as a meeting place for civil rights organizations and hosted prominent figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks.

Today, visitors can tour the restored campus of the Gillespie Selden Institute and learn about its crucial role in the struggle for civil rights. The institute's museum showcases the rich history of the school and its impact on the African American community. It is a must-see destination for those interested in learning about the educational and social history of Cordele, Georgia.

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