Honoring the Past: News & Media
The Lincoln School Legacy Project is gaining momentum — and the story of Kirksville’s historic Lincoln School is reaching audiences across Missouri and beyond. This page brings together our growing collection of videos, news coverage, interviews, and articles that highlight the importance of preserving Black educational history and restoring the Lincoln School for future generations.
As the project continues, this library will expand. Check back often for new updates, media features, and community stories.
Featured Videos
Explore these videos that share the history of the Lincoln School, document our progress, and highlight the voices of community members, historians, and supporters.
- History of Lincoln School — This is a radio interview August 2013 by Trevor Harris, Radio Producer/On-Air Host KBIA 91.3fm/University Concert Series [YouTube Video]
- Walkthrough History of the Lincoln School — The story of the historic Lincoln School in Kirksville, which was attended by the county’s African American community between 1841 – 1954. AI Generated Content [YouTube Video]
- Inspiring Story of Doris Akers — Doris Akers, affectionately known as “Miss Gospel”, was one of the most influential voices in gospel music. From her humble beginnings growing up in Kirksville, Missouri to writing timeless songs like “Sweet, Sweet Spirit” and “Lead Me, Guide Me,” her music continues to inspire believers across the world. [YouTube Video]
- Doris Akers: I Believe — Doris’ performance from the gospel movie, “Sing A Song For Heaven’s Sake” [YouTube Video]
- Doris Akers: You’ll Never Walk Alone — Highly regarded gospel music singer, choir director, music publisher and songwriter of gospel music, sometimes referred to as ‘Mrs. Gospel Music’. Inducted in the ‘Southern Music Hall of Fame’ in 2011. [YouTube Video]
News Coverage & Articles
The Lincoln School Legacy Project has been featured in local and regional media outlets. These stories help amplify our mission and bring awareness to the importance of preserving this historic landmark.
News Coverage:
- Citizen Group Needs Help in Saving Historic School Building — Hagan Zinecker | Aug 12, 2026 | This article talks The mission of the project and condition of the schoolhouse at the time of the article.
[KTVO, CBS/ABC] - Adair Co Historical Society Save Building — Jun 12, 2026 Updated Oct 19, 2026 | Special feature on TV broadcast covering the mission of the Lincoln School Project. [KTVO, CBS/ABC]
- Thinking Out Loud: Saving the Lincoln School — Trevor Harris | July 2, 2014 | Older article written about the hope from the community to preserve the Lincoln School. [University of Missouri – KBIA]
Additional Information
History of Lincoln School Booklet Now Available | The complete history of Lincoln School, as written by ACHS President Blytha Ellis, is now available as a print booklet. These articles were first published as part of her weekly newspaper column “Embracing Local History” in the Kirksville Daily Express from February 25 through May 6, 2026.
Missouri State Parks: National Register of Historic Places Registration Form | Dec. 9, 2016
National Register of Historic Places Registration Form | Dec. 16, 2016
Doris Akers Wikipedia Profile | Doris Mae Akers (May 21, 1923 – July 26, 1995) was an American gospel music composer, arranger and singer who is considered to be “one of the most underrated gospel composers of the 20th century who wrote more than 500 songs”. Known for her work with the Sky Pilot Choir, she was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2001.
Remembering Doris Akers | David Cook, a member of the Lincoln School Legacy Project team created this website tribute to Doris Akers’ life.
Community Stories & Project Highlights
This section will grow as we continue documenting the restoration process, community events, and the personal stories connected to the Lincoln School.
Examples of future additions:
- Photo galleries from restoration milestones
- Interviews with former students or their families
- Behind‑the‑scenes updates from volunteers and partners
- Educational content about segregation, integration, and Missouri’s Black history
These stories help us honor the past while celebrating the community shaping the future of the Lincoln School.
Share Our Story
If you are a journalist, educator, or community member interested in covering the Lincoln School Legacy Project, we welcome collaboration. Your voice helps preserve history and inspires others to join our mission.