After the Civil War, black families were invited to Berea by white abolitionist Rev. John G. Fee to develop an interracial school and church. From 1866 to 1904, residents' lives revolved around Berea College, which educated black and white students together from primary school through college. In 1904, the Day Law prohibited interracial education. College trustees retained white students while funding blacks to attend allblack colleges elsewhere. From 1904 to 1950, when the Day Law was amended, many residents upheld racial equality principles.

Situated on the southeastern edge of the Bluegrass Region, the rural community of Madison County lies in the heart of Kentucky's central rolling hills. Formed in 1785, the county was named for Virginia statesman James Madison. Education thrives in the region, which is home to both Eastern Kentucky University and Berea College. Madison County, Kentucky highlights the progress of the area over the 20th century, including the bustling railroad stations and lines that crossed the county and played an integral role in the local economy.