Can the negro race successfully own and operate cotton mills? This question, so long in doubt, is about to be answered, and we believe in the affirmative. The first great stride in that direction was taken when, on the 8th of February, 1898, was laid with Masonic honors the corner-stone of the handsome three-story brick building, 80 × 120 feet in dimensions, of the Coleman cotton mill. It was indeed a marked epoch in the history of the negro race, and pronounced by all present an entire success. Noted speakers from all over the United States were invited, and the railroads gave reduced rates from all points. Following the laying of the corner-stone was the annual election of old officers, who are as follows: R. B. Fitzgerald, of Durham, N. C., president; E. A. Johnson, of Raleigh, N. C., vice-president; and W. C. Coleman, of Concord, N. C., secretary and treasurer. The following gentlemen constitute the Board of Directors: Rev. S. C. Thompson, Camden, S. C.; L. P. Berry, Statesville, N. C.; John C. Dancy, Salisbury, N. C.; Prof. S. B. Pride, Charlotte, N. C.; Prof. C. F. Meserve, Raleigh, N. C.; and Robert McRee, Concord, N. C. Among these are some of the highest lights of the negro race, and under their careful direction we have no doubts as to the final results of the enterprise. The promoter of this enterprise, W. C. Coleman, is the wealthiest negro in the State, and he has rallied around him not only the leaders of his race, but has the endorsement of many of the most successful financiers among our white citizens throughout the State. [Illustration: WARREN C. COLEMAN.] The mill is to have from 7,000 to 10,000 spindles, and from 100 to 250 looms, and, by their charter, will be allowed to spin, weave, manufacture, finish, and sell warps, yarns, cloth, prints, or other fabrics made of cotton, wool, or other material. They own at present, in connection with the plant, about 100 acres of land on the main line of the Southern Railway, and near the site of the mill. The mill and machinery with all the fixtures complete will represent an outlay of nearly $66,000, and will give employment to a number of hands. The building is now completed and ready for machinery. Let us add that Concord has reason to and does feel proud of the fact that she has the only cotton mill in the world owned, conducted, and operated by the negro race. At a meeting of the directors recently the capital stock was increased $50,000, and those wishing a good safe investment should secure some of this stock. The mill will be under good and safe management, and will, no doubt, be a paying institution. Special inducements will be offered to any party or parties who desire to establish enterprises that colored labor may be employed. Full particulars can be obtained from the secretary and treasurer, W. C. Coleman, Concord, N. C.