ERATH, La. - The Town of Erath is celebrating two people who made an impact on education on Friday.
Robert and Frances Dozier, both former slaves, moved to Erath to start a new life in the early 1900's.
Wanting to make sure their children received a proper education, they hired a teacher to come into their home and educate their children.
News spread of what they were doing and for 25 years they helped to educate other African-American children in the area.
The couples great-great grandchildren are working to preserve their legacy and the church where it all started.
"We're celebrating from the bondage of slavery to pioneers for education," Dana Comeaux/Education Specialist for St. Mary/Vermilion Head Start Program. "You can't get better than that. It's not where you begin in life, but where you end up."
The Mayor of Erath has declared Friday Robert and Frances Dozier Day.
Festivities will continue Saturday with a Diamonds and Pearls Masquerade Gala benefiting the restoration and preservation of the church. It starts at 7pm at the Erath Community Building.
