John Craven Jones graduated from Oberlin College in 1856 and taught for two years in a one-room school for Black students in Xenia, Ohio. When he moved to Salt Spring Island in 1859, he pre-empted 100 acres for his home; and with the support of the community, he resumed teaching. John taught a total of 25 students in two schools until about 1875, one in Vesuvius and one in Fernwood. The first schools were in rough buildings, hardly more than sheds. In 1869 when public funding began, Jones’ salary was $40.00 per month. Read more
