Name/Title
Gray Letters 1858 06 15Entry/Object ID
2024.10.1.65Description
The image displays a draft letter dated June 15, 1858, from Samuel Gray to Honorable Andrew J. Moulder, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction in San Francisco. Gray discusses issues related to school policy, specifically regarding the powers and duties of the City Superintendent and the Board of Education as defined by a School Ordinance from July 1857. He notes an additional clause related to contract approvals by the City Council and raises concerns about potential conflicts with the existing School Law and City Ordinance, particularly about the employment and salary determination of teachers. Furthermore, he details a specific case regarding the hiring of a female teacher at a fixed salary.
On the third page of the letter he discusses a conflict between a Board of Education and a newly elected Council following a municipal election on May 3rd. The Council attempted to modify an existing contract with a teacher, advocating for hiring a male teacher and rearranging school departments. The writer, Samuel Gray, is questioning whether the Board should adhere to the Council’s decisions, especially regarding financial responsibilities outlined in the statute. The letter concludes with the writer’s initials and titles, indicating urgency and concern about the situation.Collection
Benicia Historical Museum Collection
