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In preparing this work on the Afro-American Press, I am not unmindful of the fact, that while I pursue somewhat of a beaten road I deal with a work which has proven a power in the promotion of truth, justice and equal rights for an oppressed people. The reader cannot fail to recognize some achievement won by that people, the measure of whose rights is yet being questioned, and will readily see that the social, moral, political and educational ills of the Afro-American have been fittingly championed by these Afro-American journals and their editors. Certainly, the importance and magnitude of the work done by the Afro-American Press, the scope of its influence, and the beneficent results accruing from its labors, cannot fail of appreciation.

In seeking the information contained in this volume, great pains have been taken, and expense incurred to insure its truth and accuracy. The aid of those of experienced years, of both races, has been secured. The information has been carefully given and the facts culled and put together with the utmost care and thought.

Believing that credit is at all times due those who merit it, I am pleased to announce the names of some friends to whom I shall be ever grateful, and for whose kindness I shall always be ready to say words expressive of my thankfulness:

Mr. Jno. J. Zuille, an Afro-American printer of abolition times; P. W. Ray, M. D.; Prof. R. T. Greener; Miss Florence Ray; Mr. Robert H. Hamilton; Editors: A. M. Hodges, T. Thos. Fortune; R. H. Hamilton; Dr. Alex. Crummell; Hon. Frederick Douglass; Dr. William H. Johnson; Mr. John H. Deyo; Prof. Joseph E. Jones, D. D.; Bishop Benj. W. Arnett; Hon. J.J. Spellman, and others. These gentlemen and ladies I greatly thank for the loan of books, papers, periodicals, and for their kindness for gratuitous information. I also remember the aid of Hon. E. E. Cooper, editor of The Freeman, for the loan of some cuts, and the New South, at Beaufort, S. C., and other papers, for gratuitous editorial mention. Above all, I can not forget the aid of friendly interest as well as the great honor my