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EXTERIOR CARVER FARM - NIGHT
Super: CARVER FARM, MISSOURI 1865
A small fire is glowing from the shanty next to the farmhouse, and singing can be heard. In the distance THREE RAIDERS approach on horseback. MOSES CARVER, a white man of 50, comes from the door of the farmhouse and heads for the shanty.
INTERIOR MARY'S SHANTY - NIGHT
A small fire is burning as MARY, black and about 30, nurses her BABY at her breast, while three-year-old LITTLE JIM sleeps beside them. She improvises a lullaby as the baby coughs, chokes, and cries.
MARY
Bless ya, child; bless ya.
Yo' Daddy's dead,
And yo' Mama's a slave,
But yo' a child of the Lawd.
Moses Carver dashes in and picks up the sleeping boy.
MOSES CARVER
Run and hide, Mary! Jayhawkers!
There is panic in Mary's face, as Moses runs out with Little Jim. She looks for a blanket.
EXT. CARVER FARM - NIGHT
Moses Carver runs out of the shanty with the boy and disappears into the woods. The three raiders ride up in a hurry, and two of them jump off and go into the shanty.
INT. MARY'S SHANTY - NIGHT
MARY
Lawd have mercy on this child!
The two men rush in and grab Mary and the baby, and forcibly take them out.
EXT. CARVER FARM - NIGHT
The men throw Mary over one of the horses and ride off with the baby and her.
EXT. CARVER FARM - JUST BEFORE SUNRISE
The three raiders approach from the distance. Moses and SUSAN CARVER see them coming, and Susan hides nearby. The raiders have their guns out and threaten Moses.
RAIDER #1
Where's your money?
Moses silently stands his ground.
RAIDER #2
You're asking for trouble, Lop-ear!
MOSES CARVER
I work for my money.
RAIDER #1
String him up, boys.
The other two raiders grab Moses, and each ties a rope to one of his thumbs and then throws the other end over the branch of the walnut tree next to the house.
MOSES CARVER
Where's Mary and the baby?
RAIDER #1
Tell us where your money's hid,
and we won't hurt you.
Moses maintains a stubborn silence.
RAIDER #1
Hoist him up, and we'll see if he'll talk.
The men pull the ropes until Moses is several feet off the ground. They tie down their ends of the ropes. Carver groans and grunts in pain, but refuses to speak. Raider #1 nods to #2, and he goes into the shanty and returns with a shovel-full of burning coals.
RAIDER #1
We're gonna get your money one way or t'other, man,
so you might as well spit it out
and save yourself the pain.
No response. Raider #3 has taken Moses' boots and socks off.
RAIDER #1
Okay, give it to him.
Raider #3 holds Moses' legs as Raider #2 touches the coals to the bottoms of his feet. Moses Carver reacts to the pain. Susan watches from where she is hiding. Raider #1 realizes he's not going to talk. The sun is just beginning to rise.
RAIDER #1
Tarnation! He's a stubborn German!
Let's get out of here.
We'll be back for your money later.
Raiders #2 and #3 drop what they are doing, mount their horses, and the three ride off. Susan comes out from her hiding place, unties the rope and releases Moses.
EXT. CARVER FARM - DAWN
Susan nurses Moses' feet with plantain leaves.
SUSAN CARVER
We gotta get Mary and the child back.
They gotta be treated right.
We just gotta.
MOSES CARVER
You're right.
I won't let those thieves get away with this.
EXT. TOWN OF DIAMOND GROVE - MORNING
Super: DIAMOND GROVE, MISSOURI
Moses Carver rides into town trailing a racehorse. He speaks to BENTLEY who is walking along the sidewalk.
MOSES CARVER
Bentley, I hear you used to ride with bushwhackers.
BENTLEY
No more. I'm a Unionist now.
MOSES CARVER
Some nightriders took Mary and her baby,
and I wanna get 'em back.
Will you go after them for me?
BENTLEY
What's in it for me?
What's it worth to you?
MOSES CARVER
Take Pacer here.
He's a good racehorse---bred him myself.
Bring 'em back alive,
and I'll throw in forty acres of my best timberland.
BENTLEY
All that for a nigger slave and its baby?
Moses Carver responds with strong determination.
MOSES CARVER
Will you do it, or not?
BENTLEY
Moses Carver, you got yourself a deal.
EXT. BY A RIVER - CLOUDY DAY
Bentley tracking some horses, discovers TWO WHITE WOMEN walking along carrying the black baby.
BENTLEY
Where'd you find that nigger baby?
FIRST WOMAN
He was laying here by the river crying.
SECOND WOMAN
Do you know who he belongs to?
BENTLEY
I 'spect it's owned by Moses Carver.
He hired me to find a nigger woman and her baby.
They was stolen two nights ago.
Have you seen the woman?
SECOND WOMAN
No, not a sign of anyone else.
BENTLEY
They'll sell her for sure.
FIRST WOMAN
This child is very sick.
BENTLEY
I'll take it straight back to Carver.
FIRST WOMAN
Here, put this around him.
She wraps her shawl around the baby.
INT. CARVER HOUSE - RAINY DAY
Moses and Susan Carver and Little Jim are sitting around the fire. They hear the sound of a horse, and Moses goes to the door and lets Bentley in. He carries a bundle in his hands, which he hands to the Carvers.
BENTLEY
It's all I got. I guess it's still alive.
Susan takes the wet clothes off the baby quickly after seeing that it is blue with cold. She warms the baby in her arms by the fire.
SUSAN
Mary's baby. Mary's baby.
BENTLEY
Never did catch up with them.
Guess they didn't wanna be bothered with the baby.
Coupla' women had it.
SUSAN (to Moses)
Take the baby while I warm some milk.
Mary's child must live.
BENTLEY
Mary's probably been sold down the river by now.
Reckon I can't take no land for that.
Bentley points at the baby in Moses' arms which now begins to cough and cry.
SUSAN
He's alive! Thank God!
Susan takes the child and begins to feed him warm milk with a spoon.
MOSES CARVER
Keep the horse for your trouble.
BENTLEY
Much obliged. Bye, ma'am.
As Bentley goes out:
SUSAN CARVER
Thank you. Mary's child must live.
INT. BURROUGHS' SLAVE CABIN - NIGHT
Super: BURROUGHS PLANTATION, VIRGINIA
The log cabin is about 14 x 16 feet with no windows and a dirt floor. BOOKER, about 8, his older brother JOHN, and their little sister LITTLE AMANDA are sleeping on a small pile of rags. Their MOTHER is kneeling in prayer.
MOTHER
Dear God, someday can we be free?
Look down upon my chillun', and if dey be good,
den break dere chains and let us go.
Please Lawd, help Massa' Lincum and his awmy
to win dis fight---
Booker having awoke and listening for a while, now interrupts her.
BOOKER
Mama, I'm hungry!
Can I have a 'tater?
MOTHER
You lie still now. I be back.
She puts a rag around her shoulders and goes out quietly as Booker lays back down thinking.
EXT. BURROUGHS' BARN YARD - NIGHT
Booker's Mother finds her way to the chicken coop, and is finally able to grab a chicken, trying to keep it quiet.
MOTHER
Hush, you critter.
INT. BURROUGHS' SLAVE CABIN - NIGHT
Mother has roasted a chicken over the large open fireplace, and is feeding it quietly to her children.
MOTHER
Hush now, and take dis.
And don't tell no one you done et dis.
BOOKER
Mama, is Massa Lincum gonna make us free?
MOTHER
I done heard by da grapevine
dat da Nort' is winnin' da war.
EXT. SCHOOLROOM - MORNING
Super: HALE'S FORD, VIRGINIA
Booker has carried the books for young MISS BURROUGHS, daughter of Booker's owner, until they reach the door, when he hands her the books.
MISS BURROUGHS
Thank you, Booker.
I wish I didn't have to go to school.
Too bad you can't go in my place.
BOOKER
Dat would be paradise for me, Miss Laura.
MISS BURROUGHS
Silly nigger. You go on home now, you hear?
BOOKER
Yes'm.
EXT. BURROUGHS BARN - DAY
MASTER BURROUGHS loads a heavy bag of corn on a horse for Booker and commands him.
MASTER BURROUGHS
Now you hurry back from the mill, Booker.
In these woods are soldiers who have deserted the army,
and if they catch you, they'll cut off your ears.
If you're late again this time, I'll have to flog you.
So get going.
BOOKER
Yes, sir.
Booker mounts the horse and sits on the bag of corn which is balanced across the saddle.
EXT. VIRGINIA WOODS - DAY
Booker is riding along the trail slowly, trying to keep the bag balanced on the horse. Suddenly he can hear a man being whipped, the SLAVE crying out each time, "Pray, master! Pray, master!" Peering through the woods he sees a NEGRO stripped naked and tied to a tree as a WHITE MAN uses a piece of cowhide on him. More terrified than ever, he continues on, but the bag of corn has gotten unbalanced, and when the horse steps over a log on the trail, the bag slides off the horse carrying Booker with it. He tries to pick up the bag, but it is far too heavy for him, and he begins to cry.
EXT. VIRGINIA WOODS - LATE AFTERNOON
Booker is sitting on the log crying, when a tattered CONFEDERATE SOLDIER approaches him.
SOLDIER
What's the matter, boy?
BOOKER
Please don't cut my ears off, please!
SOLDIER
I'm not going to hurt you.
I've seen enough pain and killing.
What are you doing here?
BOOKER
Will ya help me get this bag a' corn back on the horse,
so massa' won't whip me?
SOLDIER
Sure.
He puts the bag across the horse, and Booker climbs on and continues his journey.
SOLDIER
Hurry along now.
INT. BURROUGHS' SLAVE CABIN - EVENING
Mother is cooking a big meal as Booker comes in.
BOOKER
Mama, I was late, but no one is beatin' me.
MOTHER
Booker, Massa's Mars' Billy's been killed,
and his two brudders are back wounded.
Booker sees that John is also sad.
BOOKER
O Mama, Mars' Billy was a good massa to us.
MOTHER
Da udder slaves are in nursin' da wounded,
and I gotta fix a big supper.
Da war's almost done now.
EXT. BURROUGHS' PLANTATION - DAY
Booker, John, Little Amanda, and their mother are gathered along with the other SIX NEGROES near the porch of the "big house" to hear a UNION OFFICER read from an official paper. Master Burroughs and his two WOUNDED SONS stand beside him.
UNION OFFICER
"And, by virtue of the power and for the purpose aforesaid,
I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States,
do order and declare that
all persons held as slaves within these United States
are, and henceforward shall be, free;
and that the executive government of the United States,
including the military and naval authorities thereof,
will recognize and maintain the freedom of said persons.
"And I hereby enjoin
upon the people so declared to be free
to abstain from violence, unless in necessary self-defense;
and I recommend to them that, in all cases when allowed,
they labor faithfully for reasonable wages.
"And upon this act,
sincerely believed to be an act of justice,
warranted by the Constitution upon military necessity,
I invoke the considerate judgment of mankind
and the gracious favor of Almighty God."
That's it. You are all free,
and can go when and where you please.
Most of the blacks are weeping for joy, while one man lets out a loud "Yahoo!" With tears running down her face, Mother speaks softly to the children.
MOTHER
Dis is da day I been prayin' for.
Massa Lincum has done freed us.
We is slaves no mo'!
Some more shouting breaks out, and many of the blacks dance around wildly. One NEGRO MAN sings soulfully, calming everyone, as they walk toward their quarters:
NEGRO MAN
Go down Moses
Way down in Egypt-land
Tell ole Pharaoh
Let my people go.
No more shall they in bondage toil.
Let my people go.
Let them come out with Egypt's spoil.
Let my people go.
Go down Moses
Way down in Egypt-land
Tell ole Pharaoh
Let my people go.
The others hum along as they contemplate the responsibilities ahead.
EXT. BURROUGHS' SLAVE CABIN - MORNING
John, Booker, Little Amanda, and their mother are packing their things in an old cart behind a mule. An older Negro, OLD JIM, speaks to them.
OLD JIM
We's gwine to miss yous around here, Miss Jane,
what you bein' da cook for all da white folk and black folk.
MOTHER
I knows it, Jim,
but I got dis here message
from my husband to go to West Virginy.
He's done got hisself a job.
OLD JIM
I's got a job, too, Miss Jane.
Right here on the ole plantation.
MOTHER
Good for you, Jim.
OLD JIM
Some a' da young 'uns what run off,
I betcha dey be comin' back 'for long.
MOTHER
Bless ya, Jim. We's goin' now.
OLD JIM
Goodby.
JOHN AND BOOKER
Goodby.
EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - EVENING
The family is camped on the ground in the open, and are eating some beans cooked by a little fire.
BOOKER
How much farther, Mama?
JOHN
Don't keep askin' her, Booker.
We gets dere when we gets dere.
MOTHER
Sh! Amanda's asleep.
BOOKER
What job's Daddy got, Ma?
MOTHER
In da mines.
Booker and John, I wanna tell ya dis
'cause I think ya should know---for da future.
Your father was a white man, from another plantation.
Now don't 'spect to meet him, 'cause ya won't.
My husband we is goin' to is Amanda's Daddy,
but ya both must do as he says, ya hear?
BOOKER
Yes, Mama.
JOHN
Sure, Mama.
MOTHER
Now get some sleep.
INT. MALDEN CABIN - AFTERNOON
The STEPFATHER lives in a rather unkept one-room cabin, but Mother begins to put it in order.
MOTHER
We is finally together. Thank da Lawd.
STEPFATHER
It was a long time from one Christmas to d'udder.
MOTHER
Amen.
STEPFATHER
Can you boys work?
JOHN
Yes, sir.
STEPFATHER
Good. Tomorra' I take ya to da salt furnaces.
I got jobs for ya.
MOTHER
Well, ain't you somethin'?
INT. CARVER BARN - MORNING
LITTLE GEORGE, about 10 years old, is completing his morning chores feeding the animals. Moses Carver is taking care of one of his fine horses. Little George has a high squeaky voice and still stutters.
LITTLE GEORGE
I f-finished feeding the cows, Uncles Moses.
MOSES CARVER
George, today I'm taking Betsy here into town,
and I'll be back late.
I want you to be sure
and take care of the animals before dark, you hear?
LITTLE GEORGE
Y-yes, sir.
C-can I go help Mrs. Baynham with her plants now?
MOSES CARVER
Yeah, you run along, but don't forget your chores.
(To the horse:)
That's a good girl.
EXT. CARVER WOODS - MORNING
Little George is running along whistling and singing to himself. He reaches his secret garden nursery, kneels down and pulls out several plants in tin cans that had been hidden and protected from the cold. He speaks softly to the plants.
LITTLE GEORGE
You're doing fine now, aren't you, little friends?
Now you two look alike and must be in the same family;
so mix together now.
If you're like the colors I use,
then red and yellow flowers oughta make an orange one.
I love ya so much.
I wish I knew your proper names.
He has put the plants in the sunlight and picks up a begonia in a can to take with him.
LITTLE GEORGE (Cont'd.)
Now enjoy the sunshine.
I'll be back to cover you up again
before it gets too cold for ya.
The icky stuff is almost gone now.
EXT. BAYNHAM'S BRICK HOUSE - DAY
Little George walks around the house saying hello to the budding roses on the sunny side, and then he starts to plant the begonia on the shady side.
INT. BAYNHAM HOUSE - DAY
Little George walks in the open back door, calling.
LITTLE GEORGE
M-mrs. Baynham!
Little George enters the parlor and looks in awe at shiny furniture, painted walls, and especially the paintings that he has never seen the like of before. He is rapt in wonder, but timidly calls the name again so as not to intrude.
LITTLE GEORGE
Mrs. Baynham.
MRS. BAYNHAM walks in.
MRS. BAYNHAM
Oh, why if it isn't the Plant Doctor!
How are the roses doing now, George?
LITTLE GEORGE
They're happy in the sun, ma'am.
Roses like sun.
MRS. BAYNHAM
They certainly are prettier since you transplanted them.
LITTLE GEORGE
I brought your begonia back;
the disease is all gone now.
MRS. BAYNHAM
Oh marvelous! I don't know how you do it.
LITTLE GEORGE
Anybody can do it.
All you gotta do is ask the plant what it needs,
and give it to 'em.
Mrs. Baynham doesn't know how to respond to that, but she sees that George is gazing in wonder at the paintings.
MRS. BAYNHAM
Do you like the paintings?
LITTLE GEORGE
I'd like to do that.
MRS. BAYNHAM
Well Mr. Plant Doctor, you'd better run along now.
Take this nickel for your work.
As he starts to go, George just has to ask someone these questions.
LITTLE GEORGE
Mrs. Baynham, where does rain come from?
Why are flowers different colors?
Why do morning glories fold up in the afternoon?
And how long does it take to make a rainbow?
MRS. BAYNHAM
I don't know.
LITTLE GEORGE
Does God know?
MRS. BAYNHAM
Why, I s'pose God knows everything.
LITTLE GEORGE
Then maybe He'll tell me.
Little George goes out and on his way.
EXT. NEIGHBOR'S YARD - LATE AFTERNOON
Little George is in the middle of a game of marbles with his brother JIM and two WHITE BOYS. Jim misses.
JIM
Aw shoot! Your turn, George.
LITTLE GEORGE
C'mon. My agate never misses.
Ha! That's it.
FIRST WHITE BOY
Let's go, Tom;
I lost enough of my nibs already.
See ya, Jim.
He gives Little George a dirty look as they leave.
LITTLE GEORGE
Holy cow! It's almost sunset.
I gotta do the chores.
Can you help me, Jim?
JIM
I gotta do mine, too,
or I'll get a lickin' from Uncle Mose.
They both start running.
EXT. CARVER WOODS - SUNSET
Little George hides away his plants, protecting them from the cold night.
EXT. CARVER BARN - TWILIGHT
Little George looks inside and sees how dark it is. Then he goes to the house.
INT. CARVER HOUSE - EVENING
LITTLE GEORGE
Aunt Sue, I need a lamp to do my chores in the barn.
SUSAN CARVER
George, you know Uncle Moses doesn't like
any fire in the barn, but here's a lamp.
INT. CARVER BARN - EVENING
Little George is pitching hay by the light of the lamp when Moses comes in angrily.
MOSES CARVER
I told you, George.
What are ya fixin' to do---burn the place down?
You had all afternoon to do your work.
I guess you need a lesson.
Bend over here.
He pulls out his leather belt and begins to punish Little George.
INT. CARVER HOUSE - NIGHT
Susan Carver is working a spinning wheel; Little George knits with some turkey feathers; while Jim plays the Jews harp, and Moses smokes a pipe.
MOSES CARVER
George, tomorrow I want you to prepare the bark and roots
for the man I sold Betsy to today;
he's taken down with some ailment.
And while you're at it make some more lard
with the sassafras and spices ya used before.
LITTLE GEORGE
Yes, sir.
MOSES CARVER
What're you doin' there?
LITTLE GEORGE
Knitting. I made these needles from turkey feathers.
SUSAN CARVER
George's hands are smart---just like Mary's were.
This was her spinning wheel.
Could she make it sing!
Little George drinks in this information about his mother.
LITTLE GEORGE
Aunt Sue, would you help me with my S-speller?
SUSAN CARVER
Sure, George.
MOSES CARVER
Jim, what's that gewgaw?
JIM
A Jews harp.
I got it on my last trip to Neosho.
MOSES CARVER
A fool and his money's soon parted.
Little George and Susan Carver are huddled together looking at a Webster's blue-back Speller. They see a picture of a temple of learning at the top of a steep hill. Susan Carver reads slowly:
SUSAN CARVER
"A school is for learning."
LITTLE GEORGE
Uncle Moses, t-today some kids told me about
a s-school in Locust Grove. C-can I go to it?
MOSES CARVER
They don't allow colored there, George.
Little George looks at his dark skin, realizing for the first time it makes a difference.
LITTLE GEORGE
Let's read some more, Aunt Sue.
She turns the page. CUT TO:
INT. MALDEN CABIN - NIGHT
Booker turns the page of the Webster's blue-back Speller he is reading with DAVIS, a black teacher. The step-father lays on a makeshift bed, while Mother is washing dishes in a pot. Little Amanda is playing in a corner, and John looks on with Booker.
BOOKER (Reading)
"George Washington was the father of our country.
He was first in war, first in peace,
and first in the hearts of his countrymen."
DAVIS
Washington was the first President.
JOHN
Look at that picture of a Negro.
BOOKER (Reading)
"The Negroes in America came across the Atlantic Ocean
from Africa where they live in barbaric tribes."
JOHN
He's even got a ring through his nose.
BOOKER
Mr. Davis, I always look forward
to our turn to board the teacher,
but I want to go to school more.
DAVIS
Well, Booker, you're learning as much at night
as most of the students do all day.
BOOKER
Pa, can I go to the school for Negroes in Malden?
STEPFATHER
Huh, what? No, you have to work in the coal mines;
we need money.
BOOKER
But what if I was to work early in the morning
and again after school?
Mother goes over to her husband to take Booker's part.
MOTHER
Please, dear, he's a smart boy.
You'll work hard, huh, Booker?
BOOKER
Oh yes, I'll start at four in the morning.
STEPFATHER
What time does school start?
DAVIS
Nine o'clock sharp.
STEPFATHER
Okay, we'll try it.
You work four to nine,
then after school till quittin' time.
BOOKER
Oh, thank you!
DAVIS
You'll need a hat for school.
STEPFATHER
I ain't buyin' no hat;
so that's it. Forget about it.
MOTHER
Here, I'll make you a cap, Booker,
from these old pants.
BOOKER
Thatta' be right nice.
EXT. COAL MINE - DAY
Booker, coming from school, takes off his cap and puts on his dirty mining jacket. He sees John come out, limping.
BOOKER
John, what's the matter?
JOHN
Shale slid right into my leg and gashed it.
I'll be all right.
Damn coal mine!
You're smart to get out for a while.
BOOKER
I got a last name today.
Everybody said two names;
so I picked Washington---Booker Washington.
Trouble is I'm always late
'cause I can't leave here till nine.
John, maybe later, I'll work extra,
and you can go to school too.
JOHN
Yeah. Now I gotta find a doctor.
You better get in there, Booker.
BOOKER
Can you make it all right?
JOHN
Yeah, I already walked a mile in the mine.
John limps off, and Booker looks at the clock which shows 2:15, lights the lamp on the helmet, and then puts it on. He goes into the dark mine.
INT. COAL MINE - DARK
Booker finally reaches some other WORKMEN in the dark shafts. He creeps closer to listen to their conversation intently.
WORKMAN #1
It's run by some northerners for Negroes.
WORKMAN #2
A boardin' school for niggers? T'ain't so.
WORKMAN #1
I ain't lyin'. In Hampton, Virginia.
They teach lots a' trades there.
Uncle Joe told me.
WORKMAN #2
Yeah, but who can pay for it?
WORKMAN #1
He says that some can work there for their board.
Yes, sir, it's called Hampton Institute.
EXT. COAL MINE - MORNING
Taking off his mining jacket, Booker looks around to see if anyone is watching before moving the hands of the clock from 8:35 to 9:00.
EXT. COAL MINE - AFTERNOON
Booker returns from school and prepares to go in the mine again. He looks at the clock and sees that it is locked in an encasement. He smiles and shakes his head.
INT. COAL MINE - DARK
Booker is in a dark shaft when his lamp flickers and goes out. Now it is pitch black.
BOOKER
Help! Help!
He stumbles along.
BOOKER (Cont'd.)
Please, someone, help me. Ow!
He stubs his toe on a rock and decides to sit down and wait. Finally he sees someone coming.
BOOKER
Over here!
A workman sees him and comes toward him.
BOOKER
You got a match?
WORKMAN #3
Here you go, boy.
He strikes a match and lights the lamp on Booker's helmet.
BOOKER
I hate this mine!
I wish I could do something else.
WORKMAN #3
Well, I heard Mrs. Ruffner is lookin' for a new boy.
She's always lookin' for a new boy.
Nobody can please that Yankee lady.
Her father owns the mines.
BOOKER
Do you think she'd take me?
WORKMAN #3
I know plenty a' boys 'druther work in the mines
than hear her scoldin'.
EXT. RUFFNER HOUSE - DAY
Booker wears poor clothes, but they are neat and clean. MRS. RUFFNER answers the door.
MRS. RUFFNER
Yes?
BOOKER
Mrs. Ruffner, my ma said she talked to you
'bout my workin' here.
My name is Booker.
MRS. RUFFNER
Please come in, Booker.
Wipe your feet first.
INT. RUFFNER HOUSE - DAY
Mrs. Ruffner instructs Booker as he walks into the living room.
MRS. RUFFNER
Now, the General and I like things
very neat, clean, and orderly.
I hope you will do better than the other boys.
They were impossible!
Booker trembles a little.
MRS. RUFFNER (Cont'd.)
If I find any dirt or trash where it shouldn't ought to be,
you'll hear it from me, let me tell you!
Do you know how to handle a broom and a mop?
And don't lie to me,
because I'll find out soon enough.
Well?
BOOKER
I can learn.
MRS. RUFFNER
We'll start with the stables. Follow me.
BOOKER
Yes, ma'am.
EXT. CARVER FARM - SUNSET
Little George and Jim are talking as they wash up at the river.
LITTLE GEORGE
For colored. I seen it today.
There's a school just for colored in Neosho,
and I'm gonna go there.
JIM
Ya think Uncle Mose will let ya go?
LITTLE GEORGE
I don't know.
As they're walking up to the house, they meet up with Moses Carver.
LITTLE GEORGE
Uncle Mose, I want to go to the school in Neosho;
it's for colored young 'uns like me.
MOSES CARVER
The laws says you're free:
"No Negro shall know any master, only God."
I can't stop you, George.
But how will you live?
LITTLE GEORGE
I can sweep and cook and tend fires and ...
and I can learn to do things.
EXT. CARVER FARM - MORNING
Little George with a small bundle of clothes is saying goodby to Moses, Susan, and Jim. Susan Carver hands him a bundle.
SUSAN CARVER
Here's something to eat till you find a job, George.
LITTLE GEORGE
Thanks, Aunt Sue.
MOSES CARVER
Let me tell ya a story, George.
Once upon a time there were two boys in the same family.
One was a spendthrift and threw away his money
on gewgaws, jewelry, and fancy things.
The other saved his money and bought a setting of eggs.
He raised chickens and sold them
until he had enough to buy a pig.
He raised piglets and sold them
until he had enough to buy a heifer.
He raised a couple of calves
and sold them and bought a colt.
It grew into a horse, and by that time
he had enough money for a saddle and bridle.
Finally, he was able to buy a suit of clothes.
That boy became a real gentleman.
JIM
Goodby George; I'll be comin' along too, someday.
LITTLE GEORGE
Good. When I'm settled,
I'll see if I can find some work for ya.
JIM
Thanks.
SUSAN CARVER
Goodby George. Take care of yourself.
LITTLE GEORGE
Goodby!
He waves goodby and starts his journey, as tears come into Susan Carver's eyes.
EXT. ROAD TO NEOSHO - DAY
Little George is all alone in the country walking along the road whistling.
EXT. NEOSHO STREET - LATE AFTERNOON
Little George is walking through the town looking for a place to stay or work he can do.
EXT. BARN NEAR LINCOLN SCHOOL - DUSK
Little George sees the barn is free of people, and he goes in.
INT. BARN - DUSK
He climbs up into the loft, eats the last of his food and lays down in the hay to sleep.
INT. BARN - DAWN
Little George hearing the loud cock-a-doodle-doo scrambles out of the loft, down the ladder, and out into the morning.
EXT. LINCOLN SCHOOL AND AUNT MARIAH'S HOUSE - MORNING
Little George is sitting on the steps of the closed school with his chin on his hands. AUNT MARIAH comes out of the house going about her daily routine. Seeing George, she stops in her tracks and says to herself:
AUNT MARIAH
Bless my soul. I ain't seen that one before.
Little George notices her.
AUNT MARIAH (Cont'd.)
What are you doing here?
LITTLE GEORGE
I came to go to school.
I'm ... uh, a-waitin' for it to open.
AUNT MARIAH
You gotta long wait, 'cause school's closed today.
LITTLE GEORGE
When can I go to it?
AUNT MARIAH
Tomorrow, I 'spect.
Little George starts to walk away slowly.
AUNT MARIAH
You new around here? Where's your folks?
LITTLE GEORGE
In Diamond Grove.
AUNT MARIAH
You walked eight miles to go to school?
LITTLE GEORGE
Yes, ma'am.
AUNT MARIAH
You hungry, boy?
LITTLE GEORGE
Yes, ma'am.
AUNT MARIAH
Wash up at the pump over there, and come on in.
You scrub yourself clean now, you hear?
LITTLE GEORGE
Yes, ma'am!
INT. AUNT MARIAH'S HOUSE - MORNING
Little George is happily eating corn bread and greens.
AUNT MARIAH
I spose you gotta name we would call you by.
LITTLE GEORGE
Carver's George.
AUNT MARIAH
Is that what your ma calls you?
LITTLE GEORGE
My ma is gone, ma'am.
Mr. Moses Carver and Aunt Sue took care a' me.
AUNT MARIAH
Sposin' they're worryin' over you 'bout now?
LITTLE GEORGE
Naw, they understand.
I told 'em I was comin' here to work and go to school.
Aunt Mariah confers privately with UNCLE ANDY. They nod in agreement.
AUNT MARIAH
You can stay here with us, George, but you gotta work.
LITTLE GEORGE
I'm a good worker, ma'am, just show me what to do.
Can I go to school, too?
AUNT MARIAH
Well, that's what you came for.
LITTLE GEORGE
Oh thank you!
UNCLE ANDY
We're right happy to have you with us, boy.
You can call me Uncle Andy.
This here is Aunt Mariah.
EXT. AUNT MARIAH'S BACK PORCH - MORNING
Aunt Mariah is scrubbing Little George in the tub.
AUNT MARIAH
When you go to school,
you tell them your name is George Carver.
You're a free person now.
LITTLE GEORGE
I sure was lucky to find you folks here near the school.
AUNT MARIAH
What do you mean, luck?
God shows His purpose in everything.
You're here so you can learn, George Carver.
God brought you here, and He wants us to lend a hand.
INT. LINCOLN SCHOOL - DAY
STEPHEN FROST, a black teacher, is in front of the class. The one room is jam-packed with Negroes of varied ages, many of them adults. Little George is squeezed in on a bench, and is drawing a flower on his slate.
FROST
And so the King of Spain claimed the New World,
and soon colonies were being sent
from England and Holland and other places.
A young man named JOHNSON shouts out a question.
JOHNSON
How did the black people get to this country, Mr. Frost?
FROST
Just keep your place now, Johnson.
Everything in due time. Twenty minute recess.
The class becomes chaotic as everyone stirs around. Little George manages to get out the door and runs over to Aunt Mariah's.
EXT. AUNT MARIAH'S - DAY
Little George shows her his slate with the picture of the flower, then gets busy helping her with the laundry.
LITTLE GEORGE
See my slate, Aunt Mariah.
Now I can draw lots of pictures.
AUNT MARIAH
That's fine, George.
LITTLE GEORGE
I want to find out where snow comes from
and how to change a plant by changing its seed.
Do you think I can learn that from Mr. Frost?
AUNT MARIAH
Folks in Neosho don't know those sorts of things, George.
Probably not in Kansas City either.
But I'll pray to God that you find out
everything you want to know, somewhere.
Little George is distracted from his work.
AUNT MARIAH (Cont'd.)
Mind your scrubbin',
and do a good job for my customers now.
LITTLE GEORGE
Yes, ma'am.
Little George scrubs some more, then runs from the wash tub, climbs over the fence, and goes back into the school.
INT. RUFFNER KITCHEN - DAY
Booker is wiping clean the counter after washing the dishes. Mrs. Ruffner comes in.
MRS. RUFFNER
Booker, since you've done such a fine job
keeping the kitchen clean,
I'm going to trust you to take some peaches to market.
Pick the ripest ones
and take them in this basket to the Malden grocer.
He'll give you a fair price for them.
Bring the money right back.
BOOKER
Yes, ma'am.
MRS. RUFFNER
Account for every penny now.
Booker takes the basket and goes out.
EXT. MALDEN STREET - DAY
A black MALDEN MAN stops Booker on his way to the grocer. He grabs the most luscious peach out of the basket.
MALDEN MAN
Hi boy, thanks for the peach.
BOOKER
Sir, please put it back.
MALDEN MAN
Just one peach, boy;
no one'll miss it. Won't hurt you none.
BOOKER
Please put it back.
MALDEN MAN (Laughing)
You gonna make me.
BOOKER
Sir, if they were mine, I'd gladly let ya have one;
but I was entrusted with these by Mrs. Ruffner,
and there ain't no way I can let ya take one
without trying to stop ya.
He puts the peach back.
MALDEN MAN
Well, I'll be.
INT. MALDEN GROCER - DAY
As Booker comes in the door, he meets his friend YOUNG FANNY, a pretty girl of 12.
YOUNG FANNY
Why, Booker, what gorgeous peaches you have there!
BOOKER
Oh, hi, Fanny.
Sir, these are from Mrs. Ruffner.
GROCER
Those look fine, Booker.
BOOKER
Sir, can I buy one for this penny?
GROCER
That Mrs. Ruffner is strict with you, ain't she?
BOOKER
I'm used to her now.
She just likes ya to do good work
and be honest; that's all.
GROCER
Here, Booker, this one's a little green;
I'll give it to you.
BOOKER
Thank you, sir.
Fanny, will you walk with me?
YOUNG FANNY
Why, sure, Booker.
EXT. MALDEN STREET - DAY
Young Fanny is eating the peach as they walk.
BOOKER
Mrs. Ruffner lets me go to school
for an hour a day and at night.
YOUNG FANNY
You're pretty smart in school, Booker.
BOOKER
I study all I can in my spare time,
so I can go to Hampton Institute someday.
YOUNG FANNY
That's your great dream, isn't it?
BOOKER
I think about it all the time.
Fanny, would you like to go to Hampton?
YOUNG FANNY
Do they take girls?
BOOKER
I don't know.
You wanna see my library?
YOUNG FANNY
Library?
BOOKER
I've got four books now.
INT. AUNT MARIAH'S HOUSE - EVENING
Uncle Andy, Aunt Mariah, and Little George are sitting around the fire. There is a small fir tree in a clay pot next to the window.
UNCLE ANDY
That's the finest Christmas tree we've ever had, George.
Sure am glad you fixed my boots.
I wore 'em all day, and my feet ain't sore a'tall.
Little George presents Aunt Mariah with a lace design for a full dress.
LITTLE GEORGE
I'd like you to have this for Christmas, Aunt Mariah.
AUNT MARIAH
Oh, it's beautiful! Did you make this yourself?
LITTLE GEORGE
I copied the pattern by looking in the dress shop window,
but I did the work myself.
AUNT MARIAH
Why thank you, George.
She gives him a hug and then finds a large book and gives it to him.
AUNT MARIAH
We want you to have this.
LITTLE GEORGE
The Holy Bible.
AUNT MARIAH
Since we can't read much,
we were hoping you could read to us.
He opens the book at random and reads slowly.
LITTLE GEORGE
"Thou preparest a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
thou anointest my head with oil, my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life;
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
Tears are flowing from Aunt Mariah's eyes.
INT. AUNT MARIAH'S HOUSE - DAY
Little George comes in and starts helping Aunt Mariah dusting and cleaning the well-kept house.
LITTLE GEORGE
Been working over at the Slater's.
Got the screen door fixed, polished all the lamps,
hauled the ashes out of the fireplace---
AUNT MARIAH
Boy, I don't care how many things you done.
It's how well you done 'em that counts.
Now get the tub ready for the next batch.
INT. MALDEN CABIN - EVENING
BOOKER WASHINGTON, his Mother, and Stepfather are having a discussion, while JOHN H. and AMANDA listen. Washington, now 16, is full grown as is his brother John H., who is 18. Mother is not only older but also quite frail.
MOTHER
Five hundred miles, and ya don't know where 'tis.
Dat is a wild goose chase!
WASHINGTON
But Ma, I can ask people how to find Hampton.
I know you don't want me to leave,
but I have to do this.
MOTHER
Oh Booker, I'm jes' 'fraid I'm never gonna see ya again.
WASHINGTON
I know Ma, but I'll be back; I promise.
MOTHER
Have ya got some money to travel?
STEPFATHER
He ain't gettin' nothin' from me.
Why, we's losin' five dollars a month with Booker gone.
John H. hands Booker some money.
JOHN H.
Here, Booker, it's all I got,
but I'll send more when I can.
WASHINGTON
Thanks a lot, John.
Mother is sitting down crying.
WASHINGTON (Cont'd.)
I'll be all right, Ma.
I'm gonna make somethin' of myself.
EXT. SMALL HOTEL ON A HILL - EVENING
An old-fashioned stage coach pulls up, and the PASSENGERS get out and go into the hotel. Washington follows them.
INT. HOTEL - EVENING
The white passengers are on their way to their rooms as Washington approaches the desk CLERK.
CLERK
I'm sorry, nigger, but ya can't stay here.
Washington is surprised and hurt. He takes his clothes satchel and walks out.
EXT. HOTEL - DAWN
Washington is still walking around rubbing his arms trying to keep warm.
EXT. RICHMOND STREET - LATE AFTERNOON
Washington walks along noticing some fried chicken and half-moon pies stacked up in an appetizing way. He goes into the grocery store.
INT. RICHMOND GROCERY STORE - LATE AFTERNOON
Washington approaches the MANAGER.
WASHINGTON
Sir, do you know anywhere I can spend the night?
I'm all outta money. Do you have any work?
MANAGER
No, I can't trust ya in here overnight, boy.
WASHINGTON
How far is it from here to Hampton?
MANAGER
Uh, let's see, 'bout eighty miles, I reckon.
EXT. RICHMOND SIDEWALK - MIDNIGHT
Washington is exhausted from walking and sits down on a high place in the sidewalk. After a moment, he looks under the sidewalk and sees a ditch large enough for a man. He looks around to make sure no one can see him, then crawls down into the ditch, and lays down to sleep using his satchel of clothes as a pillow.
EXT. RICHMOND SIDEWALK - DAWN
Washington is awakened by the sound of footsteps above his head. He looks to see that the coast is clear, and then scurries out. He immediately notices a large ship nearby where they are unloading pig iron. He puts his satchel in the ditch and walks up the gangplank and talks to the CAPTAIN. Soon he is unloading the iron.
EXT. RICHMOND DOCK - DAY
Washington receives some money from the Captain and hurries down the gangplank.
EXT. RICHMOND STREET - DAY
Washington buys one of the half-moon pies and bites into it with relish.
EXT. HAMPTON INSTITUTE - DAY
Washington is in awe as he approaches the three-story brick building which has HAMPTON INSTITUTE written across it. Reverently and humbly he walks inside.
INT. HEAD TEACHER'S OFFICE - DAY
Washington rather dirty and ragged from his long journey, enters the room and stands behind a well-dressed Negro boy, WARREN LOGAN. MISS MACKIE, a proper white lady, questions him.
MISS MACKIE
Your name, young man?
WARREN LOGAN
Warren Logan.
MISS MACKIE
And do you have the tuition for the first semester
and first month's board cost?
WARREN LOGAN
Yes, ma'am. Here is forty dollars.
MISS MACKIE
Very good.
You are assigned to room twenty-seven
in the boys dormitory.
Let me have those papers.
Report back here tomorrow at eight a.m. sharp.
WARREN LOGAN
Yes, ma'am.
He leaves as Miss Mackie looks at Washington skeptically.
WASHINGTON
I'm Booker Washington, ma'am,
and right now I've only got fifty cents.
MISS MACKIE
Just sit over there, Booker.
He sits politely on a bench. The clock shows 11:10.
INT. HEAD TEACHER'S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
The clock now shows 3:30. Miss Mackie summons Washington.
MISS MACKIE
Come here.
The adjoining recitation room needs sweeping.
Take the broom and sweep it.
Washington gets up eagerly, picks up the broom, and goes into the room indicated.
INT. RECITATION ROOM - AFTERNOON
Washington enters a terribly dusty room which has not been cared for in three months. He begins to sweep, moving the furniture to get to every place where there is dirt.
INT. RECITATION ROOM - LATE AFTERNOON
Washington is polishing up the furniture and all the woodwork with a rag. He makes sure every spot is clean.
INT. HEAD TEACHER'S OFFICE - LATE AFTERNOON
Washington comes back in. The clock shows 5:15.
WASHINGTON
Okay, ma'am. It's ready now.
Miss Mackie gets up and walks into the room.
INT. RECITATION ROOM - LATE AFTERNOON
She inspects the floor under the desks, looks in the closets, then takes her white handkerchief and rubs it over the tables and benches, and even the woodwork on the walls. She sees that her handkerchief is still clean.
MISS MACKIE
I guess you will do to enter this institution.
You will work as janitor of this building
to help pay for your board.
Every morning at four o'clock you must build the fires
and prepare everything for the day.
At night you will clean and dust all the rooms.
In between you can be a student.
WASHINGTON
Oh thank you!
EXT. HAMPTON FIELD - MORNING
Washington is in line with the other students as GENERAL ARMSTRONG and Miss Mackie inspect them. He comes to Washington.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
What's your name, son?
WASHINGTON
Booker Washington, sir.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
Why did you come to Hampton?
WASHINGTON
So I can learn and then go and help my people.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
You'll have to work hard.
WASHINGTON
I intend to, sir.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
Good. The happiest people I know
are those who are helping others.
By tomorrow I want those grease spots
washed out of your clothes
with soap and hot water.
Sew this button on your shirt.
He hands him a button, then holds up a toothbrush before handing it to him.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG (Cont'd.)
This is a toothbrush,
one of the distinguishing features of civilization.
I want you to use it every day.
Miss Mackie.
MISS MACKIE
Yes, General Armstrong.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
When the next charity shipment
arrives from the north,
give Mr. Washington here a set of clothes.
MISS MACKIE
I will, sir.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
Welcome to Hampton, Booker.
WASHINGTON
Thank you, sir.
INT. AUNT MARIAH'S HOUSE - DAY
Little George is laying under some blankets, and Aunt Mariah is doing the laundry inside because of the cold weather.
LITTLE GEORGE
I hate to miss school on account of a cold.
AUNT MARIAH
I thought I heard you saying
Mr. Frost don't have much more to teach you.
LITTLE GEORGE
Yeah, but I don't want to miss anything.
AUNT MARIAH
What are you gonna do
with your learnin', George?
LITTLE GEORGE
Help our people, if I can.
AUNT MARIAH
When I was a slave on the big plantation,
there was only one Negro who could read, Libby.
If the master found out,
he mighta' sold her down the river.
They were suspicious
'bout any of us rising above our station.
She us to read a little
by the light of the shanty fire.
You should teach our people, too, George.
We're starvin' for a little bit a learnin'.
EXT. AUNT MARIAH'S HOUSE - MORNING
The SMITHS are waiting on a packed-up wagon as Little George says goodby to Aunt Mariah and Uncle Andy.
LITTLE GEORGE
The Smiths are taking me as far as Fort Scott.
UNCLE ANDY
Free Kansas, huh?
AUNT MARIAH
I'm praying the Lord will lead you
to a good school, George.
LITTLE GEORGE
Thanks for everything,
Uncle Andy, Aunt Mariah.
God bless you.
AUNT MARIAH
Do good work now, you hear?
LITTLE GEORGE
Goodby.
He climbs onto the back of the wagon, and they wave to each other as he leaves.
EXT. STREETS OF FORT SCOTT - AFTERNOON
The wagon pulls up, and Little George jumps off and waves goodby to the Smiths as the wagon goes off and around the corner. George carrying his little bundle walks through the streets looking around. Some white folk look suspiciously at him. He walks up to a door and knocks. A HOUSEWIFE opens the door.
HOUSEWIFE
Yes?
LITTLE GEORGE
Got any work I can do around here?
HOUSEWIFE
No, I'm sorry.
She quickly closes the door.
EXT. ANOTHER HOUSE IN FORT SCOTT - LATE AFTERNOON
Little George knocks on the door. A MAN opens the door and looks at him.
LITTLE GEORGE
Uh, mister, I'm looking for ... work.
The door is slammed in his face before he can finish his sentence.
EXT. HOUSE ON ANOTHER STREET IN FORT SCOTT - DUSK
The door opens, and a LADY questions Little George.
LADY
What do you want, boy?
LITTLE GEORGE
Work, housework.
LADY
Try over across the street
there at Mrs. Payne's.
She's been looking for help.
LITTLE GEORGE
Thank you, ma'am.
EXT. MRS. PAYNE'S HOUSE - DUSK
Little George straightens himself up and knocks on the door. MRS. PAYNE opens the door.
MRS. PAYNE
Hello.
LITTLE GEORGE
I heard you need somebody to do housework.
MRS. PAYNE
Well, I was looking for a girl.
LITTLE GEORGE
I can wash clothes, wash dishes,
sweep, and tend the fire.
MRS. PAYNE
I need someone who can cook.
LITTLE GEORGE
I can cook, too.
MRS. PAYNE
Okay, I'll give you a try.
Come on in out of the cold.
INT. MRS. PAYNE'S KITCHEN - EVENING
Mrs. Payne leads Little George into a well-equipped kitchen.
MRS. PAYNE
What's your name, boy?
LITTLE GEORGE
George Carver.
MRS. PAYNE
Okay, George. I'm Mrs. Payne.
Now my husband likes his biscuits,
pudding, and coffee just right.
The beef is already in.
We'll eat at six.
She walks out of the kitchen, leaving George to stare at a stove, dishes, and utensils, the likes of which he has never seen before. He washes up at the indoor pump, and starts going through the cupboards to gather flour, potatoes, and coffee. When he has got them before him, he looks at everything and realizes he doesn't know what to do. Just then Mrs. Payne walks back into the kitchen.
LITTLE GEORGE
Uh, Mrs. Payne,
since you want everything just right,
could you show me exactly
how you prepare everything?
MRS. PAYNE
Well, let's see.
The biscuits take two cups of flour,
a spoonful of baking powder,
which you'll find right over here.
INT. MRS. PAYNE'S KITCHEN - EVENING
Little George is listening behind the swinging door We hear the voice of MR. PAYNE from the dining table.
MR. PAYNE (v. o.)
Yes, sir. These biscuits taste mighty good.
Let's keep that boy around.
INT. HAMPTON CLASSROOM - AFTERNOON
Washington stands in front while MISS LORD, a white teacher, sits at one of the desks listening to him.
WASHINGTON
What shall I speak about, Miss Lord?
Something from the Bible or Shakespeare
which you've taught me to know and love?
MISS LORD
If you're going to be a public speaker,
you must have something to say to people, Booker.
Maybe a political theme?
WASHINGTON
No.
MISS LORD
What do you want to communicate?
WASHINGTON
I know.
MISS LORD
Breathe deep from your stomach now.
WASHINGTON
Many people, black and white,
who have gotten some education
often feel themselves to be above manual labor.
I would like to speak to you today
about the dignity and importance of physical work.
By working with things,
we can learn discipline and effectiveness
and have concrete evidence
of our success or failure....
INT. HAMPTON DORMITORY - DAY
Washington opens a letter while sitting on his bed next to Warren Logan. He finds some money in it.
WASHINGTON
Hey, Warren, my mother and brother
sent me money to return home
for summer vacation this year.
LOGAN
That's great, Booker.
I'm looking forward to home-cooking
and my own bed, too.
WASHINGTON
You know something?
LOGAN
What's that?
WASHINGTON
When I first came here,
I slept under the sheets and on top of the sheets
until I saw you get between them.
LOGAN
Aw, get on.
He pushes Washington playfully over on the bed.
INT. MALDEN CABIN - AFTERNOON
Washington is hugging his Mother, while John H., Amanda, Stepfather, and several black NEIGHBORS have gathered in celebration.
WASHINGTON
Mama, it's so nice to see you.
MOTHER
Booker, we's so proud a' you, I feel like burstin'.
JOHN H.
You're the first one to get out
and make somethin' of yourself,
and we're with you all the way.
WASHINGTON
Thank you all.
When I finish school,
I'm gonna help John go through Hampton,
because he's been working
and helping me unselfishly.
NEIGHBOR WOMAN
You're invited for supper
at our place tomorrow night,
so's you can tell us all about Virginia.
WASHINGTON
Fine.
NEIGHBOR MAN
At our place, too.
WASHINGTON
You're all quite generous,
but shouldn't you folks be working now?
STEPFATHER
We's on strike. All the mines is closed.
WASHINGTON
No one's working?
AMANDA
Tell us about Hampton, Booker.
WASHINGTON
Well, the teachers from the North
are the most dedicated people I've ever seen,
except for maybe the students
who work and study almost every minute of the day.
INT. MALDEN CABIN - MORNING
Everyone is still resting except Booker and John H. who have gotten up and are eating some cornbread.
JOHN H.
Ma seems better since you been home, Booker.
Maybe she'll recover.
WASHINGTON
I think she always wanted to see us educated.
John, I'm tired of sitting around here without work.
Today I'm going to walk to the next town if I have to.
I've got to make some money for school next year.
Washington starts to leave.
JOHN H.
Okay, Booker, see ya later.
EXT. ROAD BY ABANDONED HOUSE - NIGHT
Washington has been walking all day and half the night and is exhausted. Seeing the house is empty he goes in and collapses on the floor.
INT. ABANDONED HOUSE - NIGHT
John H. finds his brother and gently wakes him up.
JOHN H.
Booker, Booker, I been lookin' all over for ya.
WASHINGTON
Huh? I was just so tired.
JOHN H.
Booker, it's me, your brother John.
WASHINGTON
Oh, John, what is it?
JOHN H.
Ma died tonight.
WASHINGTON
Oh God.
INT. MALDEN CABIN - EVENING
The family is eating a makeshift meal out of cans with crackers.
STEPFATHER
Those damn union organizers
never get us anywhere.
They're only out for theirselves.
WASHINGTON
John, I got a letter from Hampton,
and they want me back early
to assist in cleaning the buildings.
If I talk to Mrs. Ruffner again,
maybe you can have my job in the other mines.
JOHN H.
That could be good.
WASHINGTON
Amanda, come here.
He talks quietly to her.
AMANDA
Yes, Booker.
WASHINGTON
Amanda, you know your father can't pay
a housekeeper to take over Ma's work,
so you're going to have to do the best you can.
AMANDA
But Booker, I don't know---
WASHINGTON
Practice cooking and preparing the meals,
and you'll get better as you go along.
Ask someone who knows how
to help you get started.
AMANDA
I'll try, Booker.
WASHINGTON
Good girl.
INT. HAMPTON CLASSROOM - DAY
Washington is working side by side Miss Mackie scrubbing and mopping.
WASHINGTON
Miss Mackie, you're from
one of the most cultured families of the North.
How come you're doing this work yourself?
MISS MACKIE
I like to see the windows clear and bright,
and everything in good condition for the new session,
and get great satisfaction doing it myself.
I do it every year.
EXT. MRS. PAYNE'S HOUSE - MORNING
Little George is walking out the door, and Mr. and Mrs. Payne follow him out to say goodby. He has on new clothes.
MR. PAYNE
It was no surprise to me, George,
you won that baking contest
at the Methodist Church.
MRS. PAYNE
Thanks for teaching me
how to use herbs and plants.
LITTLE GEORGE
Ma'am, I have to thank you
for showing me how to cook.
MRS. PAYNE
What do you mean?
LITTLE GEORGE
When I first came here,
I had never used a stove
or even seen an indoor pump before.
I did what you told me,
but then I could see how to improve;
so I did.
MRS. PAYNE
It's good you're going to school, George.
You should be using your mind.
Goodby.
LITTLE GEORGE
Goodby.
INT. SCHOOLROOM IN FORT SCOTT - DAY
Little George is the only Negro in the school. He has some seeds and is explaining about them to the class.
LITTLE GEORGE
These seeds grow up into sweet pea flowers.
They are all different colors and are very pretty.
Mr. Harrison, do you know how
to mix the colors by the seeds?
MR. HARRISON
No, I don't, George.
But if you find out,
then maybe you can tell us.
LITTLE GEORGE
Yes, sir.
MR. HARRISON
Okay, class.
The assignment is to study the Bill of Rights;
that's the first ten amendments to the Constitution.
And for science to bring in part of another plant.
Don't worry if you don't know what it is,
because George can probably identify it for us.
The student laugh and disperse from the class. George goes up to the teacher.
LITTLE GEORGE
Mr. Harrison, I have the money now
for that botany book you said I could buy.
MR. HARRISON
Oh, very good. Here it is.
He hands Little George the book in exchange for the money. Little George tucks his other books under his arm and starts to look at this one as he walks off.
EXT. STREET IN FORT SCOTT - DAY
Little George is walking along the sidewalk, carrying three or four books. He stops to look in a store window at some paintings. TWO COWBOYS walk up to him a little drunk.
FIRST COWBOY
Hey, boy, what are you doing with those books?
LITTLE GEORGE
They're for school.
FIRST COWBOY
You're lying. Ain't no niggers in school.
You must a' stolen 'em.
LITTLE GEORGE
No, sir. I bought 'em.
FIRST COWBOY
Fancy that, Pete.
This little nigger not only claims to go to school,
but he's got extra money for books, too.
I say you're lying, and you stole 'em.
So hand 'em over.
Little George refuses to give them up. So the Second Cowboy holds him while the First Cowboy grabs the books and struggles with Little George, finally hitting him across the head to get them away from him. Little George falls to the ground, and the two cowboys walk away. Passers by don't pay it any mind.
EXT. OPEN BARN OF A BLACKSMITH - DAY
Little George approaches the Negro BLACKSMITH who is working on the anvil.
LITTLE GEORGE
Sir, do you have any work I can do?
BLACKSMITH
Sure, boy, you can start by sweeping up.
EXT. STREET BY JAIL NEAR BLACKSMITH'S - AFTERNOON
A crowd has gathered around the jail and is excited and making noise. Little George observes from across the street.
CROWD INDIVIDUALS
Lynch him!
Dirty nigger!
String him up!
NEGRO VICTIM
Please! Please! Lord help me!
CROWD INDIVIDUALS
Let's get him!
No good nigger!
They pull a Negro out of the jailhouse, beating him with boards and belts until he is unconscious or dead.
CROWD INDIVIDUALS
Nigger! Nigger!
Burn him!
Nigger!
They throw oil over him and then put a torch to it, consuming his body in flames. Little George looks on in horror, terror, and disgust.
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF FORT SCOTT - LATE AFTERNOON
Little George, carrying a bundle of clothes, walks out of Fort Scott on to the open road.
EXT. STREET BY THE SEYMOUR'S HOUSE - MORNING
Little George is walking along and feels attracted by this white house and garden. He goes in the gate and kneels down by the hyacinth flowers, singing to them. AUNT LUCY comes out of the house.
AUNT LUCY
What you doin' there, boy?
LITTLE GEORGE
Your hyacinths would like some more water, ma'am.
And those roses over there need pruning.
AUNT LUCY
You lookin' for a job?
LITTLE GEORGE
Yes, but I'd help your plants for nothing.
AUNT LUCY
Go ahead then, and when you get through there,
come on in the house for breakfast.
LITTLE GEORGE
Thank you, ma'am.
INT. SEYMOUR'S HOUSE - DAY
Aunt Lucy is showing Little George how to iron ladies' dresses. He is working on one carefully as she looks over his shoulder.
AUNT LUCY
Press it even now, like I said.
All right. Let's see if it'll stand up.
Little George takes the dress and stands it on the floor. It maintains itself as if there was someone in it.
AUNT LUCY
It'll do.
Little George examines the fine lace work of a petticoat.
LITTLE GEORGE
It's a shame this design isn't shown
where people can see it.
AUNT LUCY
Never mind that. Just do your work.
I reckon you can stay with us.
INT. SEYMOUR'S HOUSE - EVENING
Aunt Lucy, UNCLE SEYMOUR, and Little George are sitting around the fire, and Little George is reading from the Bible Aunt Mariah gave him.
LITTLE GEORGE
"Great is our Lord, and of great power;
his understanding is infinite.
The Lord lifteth up the meek;
he casteth the wicked down to the ground.
Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving;
sing praise upon the harp unto our God:
who covereth the heaven with clouds,
who prepareth rain for the earth,
who maketh grass to grow upon the mountains."
He stops reading and becomes lost in thought.
UNCLE SEYMOUR
George, Aunt Lucy and I are thinking
of moving to Minneapolis, Kansas,
and we'd be right happy
if you came along with us.
AUNT LUCY
I hear there's a much better school there,
and it's open to colored, too.
LITTLE GEORGE
Yes, I'd love to.
AUNT LUCY
Another thing too: that town needs a good laundry.
INT. SEYMOUR'S HOUSE IN MINNEAPOLIS - DAY
They are moved in, and the place is fixed up.
UNCLE SEYMOUR
Yes, George, putting that weather-stripping
over the gaps in the wall planks,
and white washing has made this old place like new.
Little George picks up the sign he has just finished painting that reads: Fine Laundry.
AUNT LUCY
That's a fine hand with the paintbrush you got, George.
How is the school here?
LITTLE GEORGE
They put me in the seventh grade.
I can hardly wait until I get in the high school class.
EXT. HAMPTON CAMPUS - DAY
Washington is on the platform during commencement exercises, involved in a debate.
WASHINGTON
To summarize my arguments
against the annexation of Cuba:
first, Spain has a right to Cuba
by discovery and colonization;
second, the United States have more than enough,
let them take care of themselves;
third, the interests of peace forbid the risks
of entanglement in bloody and costly war;
fourth, the situation of Cuba
and character of her inhabitants
would make her a burden.
Wait till the Cubans are
more capable of self-government.
As to helping their ignorance,
we have enough of that article already.
A whole South is stricken with it.
This country lately passed through an awful crisis,
in which its very foundations were shaken.
Wouldn't it be wise,
before we risk a war for Cuba,
to redeem ourselves
from the meshes of the last war?
INT. MALDEN SCHOOL - DAY
Washington is trying to teach the Negro grade school a geography lesson on a hot day. The room is stuffy, and the children are bored.
WASHINGTON
All right, once again.
Now what is a peninsula? Jamey?
JAMEY
Uh, I don't know.
WASHINGTON
You have to listen if you want to learn anything.
A peninsula is the part of a land mass
surrounded on three sides by water.
Well, since it's such a lovely day outside,
class is dismissed for double-length recess.
The children suddenly come to life as they move out into the open air.
EXT. MALDEN SCHOOL AND MARSHES - DAY
The children pour out of the schoolroom and start running toward the stream. They kick off their shoes, roll up their pants legs and happily wade through the marshes. Washington decides to join the fun and follows along. Jamey has led the way, and noticing certain land formations in miniature, he begins to point them out.
JAMEY
Look, here's an island, and that's the main continent.
Do you see the lakes over there?
Ah ha, and this must be a peninsula!
Washington looks on in wonder, realizing something about education.
EXT. MALDEN MEADOW - LATE AFTERNOON
Washington and FANNY, now 20, are strolling and talking. Fanny carries a flower.
FANNY
We don't have much time together
with you teaching a night class now too.
WASHINGTON
I know, Fanny, but there is so much to do
to help our people get some education.
Yesterday I learned a great lesson
about the difference between learning through books
and the studying of the things themselves.
I'm glad you and John
are going to Hampton in the fall.
I think their classes are much more useful
than others I've seen
where they may learn Latin and Greek,
but can't even make a living.
FANNY
I'll miss you, Booker,
but I too would like to help our people.
I've been saving what I can,
so I can go to Hampton.
WASHINGTON
Well, maybe when you finish Hampton,
we can get married.
FANNY
Oh Booker!
She gives him a big hug, and they tumble over in the grass.
INT. RUFFNER HOUSE - EVENING
GENERAL RUFFNER is laid up, attempting to recover from recent injuries, while Mrs. Ruffner and Washington talk with him.
WASHINGTON
General Ruffner, if there were more
courageous and noble people in the South like you, sir,
we wouldn't have this terrible race problem.
GENERAL RUFFNER
I can't understand the way some people behave.
The Ku Klux Klan is a disgrace to the white race.
WASHINGTON
I saw the open battle in Malden
in which you were injured,
and I cannot imagine a more heroic act
than your attempt to defend the Negroes.
GENERAL RUFFNER
Somebody's got to.
WASHINGTON
Both of our races have those elements
which preach terror, violence, and hatred.
It is up to the good people, white and black,
to try to improve our lives by constructive action.
MRS. RUFFNER
The violence is so senseless---
destroying in minutes
what it takes years to build up.
WASHINGTON
I know.
God has given the South
a difficult and complex problem.
The war only laid it bare;
now we must work together to solve it.
GENERAL RUFFNER
Thank you for coming, Booker.
WASHINGTON
I feel humble before you, sir.
MRS. RUFFNER
Thank you, Booker.
May God show you how to help your people.
INT. GENERAL ARMSTRONG'S OFFICE - DAY
General Armstrong is seated behind his desk, Washington in front of it.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
We're starting an experimental program,
and I would like your assistance.
This fall we are taking on
about fifty American Indians
from the western reservations as students.
I need a kind of "house parent" for them,
to teach them the ways of civilized life.
We're also starting a night class for poor students
who, by working ten hours a day,
can save money to become regular students.
I've heard good things about your teaching,
and I'm hoping you will accept these jobs
at twenty-five dollars a month plus board.
WASHINGTON
Of course, sir.
I know what it's like
to work all day and study at night.
Do you think the Indians
will object to being under a Negro?
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
Most of them feel superior to whites,
let alone ex-slaves, which they never were.
You'll just have to do the best you can.
WASHINGTON
Yes, sir.
INT. "WIGWAM" DORMITORY - MORNING
Some of the OLDER INDIAN BOYS who have short hair, wear shoes and white man's clothes are congregating around the doorway of two new INDIAN BOYS' room. They are laughing and pointing at beds with the sheets left on top and blankets wrapped around the pillow, etc.
OLDER INDIAN
Here comes Mr. Washington for inspection.
WASHINGTON
Good morning, gentlemen.
Let's see if the beds are made.
The older Indians laugh and mock.
WASHINGTON (Cont'd.)
And I suppose you older boys
did everything perfectly
when you first came here, too.
I want all the rooms re-arranged
with an old student and a new student
together in each room.
You older boys are responsible for teaching
the new students the proper care of the room.
Also I've talked with several Negro students
who would be willing to take one of you
as their roommate to help you in learning English.
Those with the best marks
in conduct, cleanliness, and studies
will be the first to have the opportunity.
INT. HAMPTON CLASS - 9:30 P.M.
Washington is teaching the night class for Negroes. A bell rings.
WASHINGTON
... a question of good grammar.
Okay, it's time to turn in.
NIGHT STUDENT
Do we have to, Mr. Washington?
WASHINGTON
Well, I won't stop you
from studying in your rooms.
Oh by the way,
I have certificates for Calvin and Jones
who having proved themselves over six weeks
are now "members of The Plucky Class
of the Hampton Institute
in good and regular standing."
Congratulations.
Washington hands them certificates.
NIGHT STUDENT
Three cheers for Calvin and Jones.
STUDENTS
Hooray! Hooray! Hooray!
INT. GENERAL ARMSTRONG'S OFFICE - DAY
Washington is seated opposite General Armstrong.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
I received this letter from some gentlemen in Alabama
who are starting a normal school for colored people
in a little town called Tuskegee.
They're asking me to recommend someone to take charge;
apparently they expect a white man.
But I think the man most qualified for the position is you.
Do you think you could fill this position in Alabama?
WASHINGTON
I'm willing to try---if they'll have me.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
I'll write and tell them
that I know of no white man to suggest,
but that I can recommend a colored man.
EXT. TUSKEGEE TRAIN STATION - DAY
The end of the short line to Tuskegee is a small station. LEWIS ADAMS who is black, and GEORGE CAMPBELL who is white, meet the train and greet Washington as he gets off with his suitcase.
GEORGE CAMPBELL
Are you Booker T. Washington?
WASHINGTON
Yes, I am.
GEORGE CAMPBELL
How do you do?
I'm George Campbell, a Tuskegee banker,
and this is Lewis Adams who has a shop in town.
WASHINGTON
Hello.
ADAMS
Welcome to Tuskegee.
WASHINGTON
Thank you.
GEORGE CAMPBELL
We've been writing all over for a school principal,
and are mighty pleased you could make it.
WASHINGTON
I'm eager to see the school.
ADAMS
Uh, Mr. Washington, we don't exactly have a school yet.
We're sorta' leavin' that up to you.
GEORGE CAMPBELL
To decide where to put it.
The Alabama legislature has appropriated
two thousand dollars a year for salaries.
ADAMS
Other than that you're on your own.
WASHINGTON
Is there a church available where we can begin a class?
ADAMS
I think we can find one.
WASHINGTON
Good. I want to travel around the neighborhood first
to meet the people and find out what their needs are.
GEORGE CAMPBELL
You mean you accept the position?
ADAMS
Even though there is no school?
WASHINGTON
Of course. If the people need education,
then we'll make a school.
INT. COUNTRY CABIN - EVENING
Washington sits at an old broken down table with a black family of four. He notices a new organ by the wall. As the fat pork, cornbread, and black-eye peas are served, he realizes that he is the only one who has a fork. The others use their hands.
WASHINGTON
My, what a fine musical instrument you have there!
Who plays it?
BLACK MAN
It's a beauty all right, but we's still payin' for it.
Lessons come later.
WASHINGTON
Did you grow this food and raise your own pigs?
BLACK MAN
Naw. We buys de food in town.
WASHINGTON
I've seen the prices in town are awfully high.
BLACK WOMAN
Lord yes, they's high.
WASHINGTON
But couldn't you save a lot of money
by growing your own vegetables near the cabin?
BLACK MAN
We allus grow de cotton right up to da door.
BLACK BOY
Goin' out, pa.
He and his sister grab their meat and bread in hand and run out the door.
BLACK MAN
Can my chillun go to your school?
WASHINGTON
Maybe later. The normal school is
to train better teachers for your children.
At first we can only take those
who are over fifteen and can read.
BLACK MAN
I can't read de newspapers,
but I knows how to vote.
I watch de white man,
and I keeps watchin' 'em
till I finds out which way
de white man's gwine to vote.
Den I votes 'xactly de other way.
Den I knows I's right.
INT. ONE-ROOM SHANTY - DAY
The room is filled with about thirty adult Negroes with about equal numbers of men and women. They sit on chairs, benches, stools, and wooden boxes. Washington finishes writing "July 4, 1881" on a small blackboard.
WASHINGTON
I think it is fitting that
we open this school on Independence Day,
for we hope to make our people independent
and self-sustaining
by securing the most useful education.
Some of you teachers have been surprised to find
that your former pupils have been placed
in a higher class than you.
Well, the important thing is that you're all here
to learn and become better teachers.
Tell me, what have you studied so far?
HIRAM
I know banking and discount.
WASHINGTON
Oh, do you have a bank account where you live?
HIRAM
No, sir; I don't have no savings.
MRS. BUNKLEY
I've studied Latin grammar.
MR. IRVING
And I can read some Greek.
WASHINGTON
That's fine. Has it been of any use to you?
What successful work has it helped you accomplish?
MR. IRVING
Mr. Washington, we've been educating ourselves
so we don't have to work.
WASHINGTON
But where has that kind of learning got you?
I've seen people who could locate the Sahara Desert
or the capitol of China on a world globe,
but the girls couldn't set the knives and forks
in the right place on the dinner table.
Here we are going to try
to teach you things from books,
but also skills which will make you
more useful to your communities.
INT. SMALL OFFICE - EVENING
Washington, Adams, and George Campbell are seated around a small table discussing the school.
WASHINGTON
We need some land where we can begin
to build the things we need---
not only classrooms but dormitories,
a farm, and places where they can learn a trade.
ADAMS
Yes, if every student could leave here with a trade,
they would surely be able
to help the people in their neighborhoods,
and at least make a living.
I've found that if I have something
to offer the white man,
he'll do business with me
as readily as the black man.
GEORGE CAMPBELL
That's true.
But how can we get these buildings you want?
WASHINGTON
I'd like to see the students and faculty build them.
We must work from the bottom up.
If there was just an old farm
or something somewhere....
CAMPBELL
I know of an old abandoned plantation
a mile from town that's for sale.
The big house was burned down,
but the property is up for only five hundred dollars.
WASHINGTON
Can we get it?
GEORGE CAMPBELL
The legislature won't pay for it.
You'll have to raise the money yourself.
But I'll give you an old blind horse to pull a plow.
WASHINGTON
Let's look it over,
and I'll write to General Marshall,
the Treasurer at Hampton, for a loan.
ADAMS
Good.
GEORGE CAMPBELL
Washington, always remember that credit is capital.
INT. ONE-ROOM SHANTY - AFTERNOON
Washington is in front of the class. There are some tools in the corner.
WASHINGTON
As you may know,
we have purchased some land.
Now it's up to us
to clear it and make something of it.
So I propose that every day after class
the men go up there and work on it.
MR. HARRIS
Mr. Washington,
we came here to study, not to work.
WASHINGTON
Maybe you did, Mr. Harris.
Anyone who wants to help me work on the land,
grab one of the tools Mr. Adams loaned us,
and follow me.
Washington picks up an ax and goes out the door. Some of the other men follow him, while some don't.
EXT. TUSKEGEE LAND - AFTERNOON
Washington is chopping down a tree, as a few other men work with axes, hoes, shovels, etc.
MR. HARRIS
Mr. Washington, this reminds me of the colored man
who was working in his cotton-field in July.
He suddenly stopped and looking toward the skies
and said, "O Lawd, de cotton am so grassy,
de work am so hard, and sun am so hot
dat I b'lieve dis darky am called to preach!"
They all laugh and then go back to work. Mr. Irving speaks quietly to the man next to him.
MR. IRVING
I hope the women-folk don't see me
out here laboring like a field-hand.
Washington speaks to JEREMIAH, an old man, next to him.
WASHINGTON
Jeremiah, tomorrow, you and I
will clean out the henhouse,
so we can use it for a classroom.
JEREMIAH
What you mean, boss?
You sholy ain't gwine clean out
de hen-house in de day-time?
Washington smiles.
WASHINGTON
Yes, we are.
INT. SMALL OFFICE - EVENING
Washington talks with OLIVIA DAVIDSON, a delicate light-skinned Negro woman.
WASHINGTON
What did you do
before you went to Hampton, Miss Davidson?
OLIVIA
I was educated in the public schools of Ohio,
but when I heard they needed teachers in the South,
I went to Mississippi.
I offered to go to Memphis
as a yellow-fever nurse during the epidemic,
but they refused my services,
because I've never had yellow fever.
Now, isn't that ridiculous?
WASHINGTON
I don't know.
It could have been dangerous for you.
OLIVIA
But in Mississippi I nursed
a boy with small pox back to health.
WASHINGTON
Why didn't you stay in Mississippi?
OLIVIA
The more I taught, the more I realized
that our people needed more
than mere book-learning.
So I went to Hampton,
then studied two years
at Framingham, Massachusetts.
WASHINGTON
You were recommended very highly.
We really need a Lady Principal to guide the girls.
However, right now we're in debt for the land
and to General Marshall for a personal loan.
I've promised him my salary,
but that's not going to be enough.
So far we've gotten little
from the people in the town.
OLIVIA
Have you held any suppers or festivals?
Sometimes it's easier for people to donate
goods and services which we can sell.
Then we can gather the community
around the school at the same time.
WASHINGTON
That's a great idea.
Will you take charge of it?
OLIVIA
Certainly. If this doesn't bring in enough,
I'll go North and solicit contributions.
WASHINGTON
Glad to have you with us, Miss Davidson.
INT. ONE-ROOM SHANTY - AFTERNOON
The classroom is empty as Washington sits reading a book. An OLD BLACK LADY hobbles in, leaning on a cane, and presents Washington with a small box.
OLD BLACK LADY
Mr. Washin'ton, God knows I spent
de bes' days a' my life in slavery.
God knows I's ignorant an' poor;
but I knows what you an' Miss Davidson is tryin' to do.
I knows you is tryin' to make better men
an' better women for de colored race.
I ain't got no money,
but I wants you to take dese six eggs,
what I's been savin' up,
an' I wants you to put dese six eggs
into de eddication a' dese boys an' gals.
WASHINGTON
Thank you so much.
We will make good use of them.
May the Lord bless you.
He helps her to the door.
INT. CABIN - EVENING
Washington and Fanny have set up housekeeping in a small room on the old plantation. Olivia has joined them for dinner.
OLIVIA
This chicken is delicious, Mrs. Washington.
FANNY
Thank you. Booker often wrote to me
how dedicated to the school you are, Miss Davidson.
If I can ever assist you with the girls,
please let me know.
WASHINGTON
Well, we've paid the five hundred for the land.
Now we need about six thousand dollars
for the new building,
even if we use student labor.
OLIVIA
I think it's time I made a trip to the North.
WASHINGTON
The sawmill owner has all the lumber needed,
and he wanted to deliver it to the grounds
just on my word that we'd pay,
even though we don't have any of the money yet.
FANNY
So, is he going to?
WASHINGTON
I told him as soon as
we have part of the money he could.
Miss Davidson, I think your efforts
in the North right now
could help us meet
those four hundred dollar payments.
OLIVIA
I'll leave this week.
INT. CABIN - MORNING
Fanny is cleaning, as Washington comes in with a letter.
FANNY
Will the creditor give us any more time
on the four hundred dollars?
WASHINGTON
A letter came today from Miss Davidson.
Two ladies in Boston have sent us a check
for exactly four hundred dollars.
FANNY
That's amazing!
Well, you should be able to sleep tonight.
They smile and kiss.
INT. CABIN - EVENING
Fanny, pregnant, is sewing while Washington reads Shakespeare.
WASHINGTON
Shakespeare created some wonderful characters.
This Portia is beautiful.
What do you say, if it's a girl,
we call her Portia?
FANNY
It's certainly more dignified than Fanny.
They laugh. There is a knock on the door. Washington answers it, letting in Warren Logan. They sit down.
WASHINGTON
Come in, Warren.
LOGAN
Sir, the kiln fell in again.
WASHINGTON
Oh no, I thought this one was going to work.
A day and a half longer and we would have had
thousands of bricks for the new building.
LOGAN
It's the third failure.
I think it's the straw that broke the camel's back.
WASHINGTON
Don't forget the Israelites
had to make bricks without straw.
LOGAN
So what do we do now?
We have no money.
WASHINGTON
And there's no brickyard near Tuskegee.
That's why it would be so good
if we could make them.
We could sell them, too.
LOGAN
A lot of the boys are complaining
about having to wade knee deep in the mud.
Well, goodnight, sir.
WASHINGTON
Thanks for letting me know, Warren.
Logan goes out.
FANNY
What are you going to do, Booker?
WASHINGTON
Darn it! I'm going to try it again.
I don't need this watch.
Tomorrow I'll take it to the pawn shop.
EXT. PORTER HALL - EARLY MORNING
Washington is talking with Miss Davidson outside the cellar which is being used as a kitchen and dining room.
WASHINGTON
It's quite a building,
but we badly need a kitchen and dining room.
I talked them into digging out this cellar
and using it, but it's hardly suitable.
OLIVIA
I'll see you later.
I have to go to class.
WASHINGTON
Okay.
Arguments are heard from the cellar.
ANGRY STUDENT (v. o.)
Who burned the eggs?
They're totally ruined!
GIRL (v. o.)
This bread doesn't have any salt in it.
ANOTHER GIRL (v. o.)
I knew I forgot something.
BOY (v. o.)
It's my turn to use the coffee cup today.
ANGRY STUDENT
Here, since you two can't agree, I'll use it.
ANOTHER BOY (v. o.)
But you used it yesterday.
I haven't used it in the last four days.
ANGRY STUDENT
Aw, forget breakfast!
He comes stomping out past Washington who has to step out of the way. The girl comes out also and goes over to the well. She tries to bring up some water, but the rope is broken.
GIRL (Discouraged)
We can't even get water to drink at this school.
INT. CABIN - DAY
Fanny cradles their BABY GIRL as Washington tickles the child.
WASHINGTON
My little darling, Portia.
Are you feeling better now, Fanny?
FANNY
Yes, I think so.
WASHINGTON
General Armstrong has invited me
to accompany him on a speaking tour of the North.
It's a great opportunity
for Tuskegee to gain some patrons.
FANNY
Then you must go, Booker.
WASHINGTON
Be sure and write to me how you are feeling.
INT. MEETING HALL - EVENING
General Armstrong introduces Washington to a group of well-to-do businessmen.
GENERAL ARMSTRONG
Therefore I encourage you to give generously
to Tuskegee Institute in order to build Alabama Hall.
I assure you that this will help the cause
of useful Negro education which in turn
will raise the level of civilization in the South.
I now give you the founder and Principal
of Tuskegee Institute, Mr. Booker T. Washington.
WASHINGTON
Thank you, General Armstrong.
I'm sure you gentlemen are aware
of the excellent work of Hampton Institute.
We are trying to follow their great principles
of practicality in industrial education.
From the first we have carried out the plan at Tuskegee
of asking help for nothing that we could do ourselves.
Nothing has been bought that the students can produce.
Our young men have made kilns
for all the bricks we require in building.
The boys have done the painting, made the bricks,
the chairs, tables and desks, have built a stable
and are now moving the carpenter shop.
The girls do the entire housekeeping,
including washing, ironing
and mending the boys' clothing.
Besides, they make garments to sell,
and give some attention to gardening.
INT. BEDROOM - DAY
Washington sits near Fanny who is dying.
WASHINGTON
Oh, Fanny, yesterday you seemed much stronger.
FANNY
I know, but I'm going now, Booker.
The Lord is taking me back into His bosom.
You must go on with the work for our people.
God is with you.
She dies. Washington weeps quietly.
EXT. "GEORGE CARVER'S LAUNDRY" - DAY
A customer is carrying her dirty clothes into the one-room cabin as another lady is coming out with a neat stack of clean clothes.
INT. GEORGE CARVER'S LAUNDRY - DAY
GEORGE CARVER is now full-grown and in business for himself.
CARVER
All right, Mrs. Green,
I'll bring it tomorrow afternoon.
THREE STUDENTS are examining his collection of rocks, flowers, and paintings.
STUDENT #1
George, where did you find this blue wildflower?
CARVER
On the plain near Solomon's River.
STUDENT #2
This envelope has "George W. Carver" on it.
CARVER
I use the W, so the other George Carver
in this town won't get so much of my mail.
STUDENT #3
What's it stand for? Washington?
CARVER
I don't know. I guess it could.
I don't think I'm worthy
of a name of such honor, though.
They laugh.
STUDENT #2
Have you heard from Highland College yet?
CARVER
No, but I hope to soon.
INT. PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE HIGHLAND COLLEGE - DAY
REV. BROWN is sitting behind his desk as George enters.
REV. BROWN
Yes?
CARVER
Reverend Brown, my name is George W. Carver.
REV. BROWN
What do you want?
CARVER
I'm here to enroll at Highland.
REV. BROWN
There must be some mistake.
CARVER
Your letter says that I am to enroll September---
REV. BROWN
It doesn't matter what it said.
You didn't tell us you were a Negro.
Highland College doesn't take Negro students.
I'm sorry.
Carver, let down and disappointed, turns and walks out. Rev. Brown is embarrassed and ashamed.
EXT. STREETS OF HIGHLAND - LATE AFTERNOON
Carver wanders aimlessly, lost in a daze. He looks in his pocket to see how much money he has left and finds only a couple of pennies.
EXT. KANSAS PLAIN - SUNRISE
Carver is walking and studying nature, singing to the little desert flowers. He looks over his land. We hear in his mind a part of a poem he wrote.
CARVER (v. o.)
Whilst I was sitting one day musing
On Life's book, each page perusing,
I heard a whisper softly sighing,
"Lo, Time's sickle is near thee lying.
The rich and poor, the great and small,
By this same sickle all must fall.
Each moment is golden and none to waste.
Arouse thee then, to duty haste!
O! sit not down nor idly stand;
There's plenty to do on every hand.
If you cannot prosper in work like some,
You've at least one talent, improve that one."
So, I own the land now.
I should do more with my life than just farm.
INT. WASHINGTON HOME - EVENING
Washington and his wife Olivia Davidson are talking with Treasurer Warren Logan.
LOGAN
I was able to block the resolutions
in favor of moving the Lincoln Normal University
to Montgomery at the Baptist convention
and at the Labor Party convention.
WASHINGTON
That's good.
It's stupid to put another industrial school
for Negroes run by a white man so close to Tuskegee.
LOGAN
I wonder though about our attempts
to help Stevens secure the school for Selma.
He is the most radical member of our race in Alabama.
WASHINGTON
He's given us generous advertising in his newspaper.
LOGAN
Yes, which has been deducted from the accounts owing
for his two daughters who are here at Tuskegee.
WASHINGTON
I've promised him I would see
that his expenses are paid
when he goes to Auburn to see the Governor.
LOGAN
Frankly, I don't think he is the type of person
we ought to be associated with.
If the white politicians and businessmen find out
that we've been giving him money,
I think we would lose more than we could ever gain.
WASHINGTON
I think you're right, Warren.
We better have nothing more
to do with him in this matter.
Whether the school goes to Montgomery or elsewhere
I intend to do nothing that I would be ashamed
to have the public know about.
This should be our rule in all actions.
Thank you for stopping by, Warren.
LOGAN
Goodnight, Mrs. Washington.
Washington sees Logan to the door and then returns to his seat, looking worried and distraught.
OLIVIA
My dear Booker,
I'm worried about your health.
You're working too hard.
You know the breakdown General Armstrong had
and his warning that
the same thing could happen to you.
WASHINGTON
It has been many years without a break.
OLIVIA
Now I have a present for you---actually two.
I have inherited five hundred dollars,
and I want to use one hundred of it
for you to take that physical fitness course at Harvard.
WASHINGTON
I suppose you're right; it would do me good.
But what is the other present you have?
OLIVIA
We can expect to welcome
to our home soon a little stranger.
WASHINGTON
You're going to have a child; that's wonderful!
Washington gets up and gives his wife a kiss.
INT. BAPTIST CHURCH WINTERSET - SUNDAY MORNING
The congregation is singing the closing hymn "A Mighty Fortress is our God." Carver is off apart from the other people in back singing in a loud tenor voice. MRS. MILHOLLAND turns and notices him and smiles. The song ends, and as people are leaving, the MILHOLLANDS walk over to Carver.
MR. MILHOLLAND
You have a fine voice, young man.
My wife, Mrs. Milholland, directs the choir.
MRS. MILHOLLAND
Would you like to join?
CARVER
Oh, I'd be pleased.
MR. MILHOLLAND
Why don't you come over
to our home Tuesday at seven?
CARVER
I'll be there, sir.
INT. MILHOLLAND'S PARLOR - EVENING
There is a grand piano, an easel in the corner, a library, and three chairs. Mrs. Milholland is playing one of Chopin's Preludes, while Carver and Mr. Milholland are seated listening. Carver is enchanted with the beauty of the tones. She finishes the piece.
CARVER
That's so beautiful.
CARVER notices the painting easel and a painting of flowers. He goes over and looks carefully.
CARVER
Oh, you paint also.
MRS. MILHOLLAND
I try.
Carver picks up the brush and the palette.
CARVER
Allow me.
MRS. MILHOLLAND
Please do.
Carver brightens the colors, brings out the highlights and makes the flowers appear more alive and vibrant.
MRS. MILHOLLAND (Cont'd.)
That's marvelous!
CARVER
These brushes need cleaning.
He begins to set everything in order.
MRS. MILHOLLAND
I tell you what, George.
I'll give you music lessons
in exchange for painting lessons.
CARVER
Only if I can work in the garden, too.
MRS. MILHOLLAND
That's a deal.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY
Olivia, very sick and near death, lies in bed, as Washington sits by holding her hand.
WASHINGTON
My dearest Olivia,
you've given me and the world so much,
I don't understand why God is taking you away.
Not only have you given me two fine sons,
but I don't know how I'll keep the Institute going
without your help as Lady Principal and fund-raiser.
People tell me
I'm much more literate in my references
since I've known you and your refined tastes.
You must hold on, so we can complete our destiny
in uplifting our people through education.
Olivia speaks very weakly and with great effort.
OLIVIA
Oh Booker,
how long have you been attending me here?
WASHINGTON
It's been three months now
since you gave birth to Ernest Davidson and got so sick.
OLIVIA
But what about your work?
WASHINGTON
My work means nothing without you.
The school is running out of money;
we need you, Olivia.
OLIVIA
You can do it, Booker.
I must die now to free you for your work.
The destiny is yours, Booker.
WASHINGTON
No, Olivia, please.
Washington begins sobbing, as Olivia closes her eyes.
EXT. MILHOLLAND'S GARDEN AROUND THE HOUSE - DAY
Carver is watering some flowers with a bucket of water. The garden is extremely green, fertile, and full of beautiful flowers. Mrs. Milholland and a young man, DAN BROWN, come out of the house and walk over to Carver.
MRS. MILHOLLAND
George, this is Dan Brown.
He's a student at Simpson College.
CARVER
How do you do?
DAN BROWN
I hear you're interested
in studying painting and botany.
You know the Science Hall at Simpson
has an elegant art room under the skylight.
CARVER
I tried to go to college once,
but they didn't take Negroes.
DAN BROWN
But this college was founded by Bishop Simpson
who was an Abolitionist
and friend of Abraham Lincoln.
They'd have to take you.
CARVER
I don't know.
MRS. MILHOLLAND
What about your dream
to teach your people, George?
INT. PRESIDENT'S OFFICE SIMPSON COLLEGE - DAY
REV. HOLMES is sitting behind the desk. Carver comes in.
CARVER
I'm George Carver, sir.
Rev. Holmes stands up and shakes Carver's hand.
REV. HOLMES
Glad to meet you.
I'm Reverend Edmund M. Holmes.
Welcome to Simpson.
Please sit down.
Do you have the twelve dollars tuition?
CARVER
Yes, sir, barely, but I can work.
If there was somewhere I could set up a laundry.
REV. HOLMES
Very good.
There's an old shack just off campus
that I think you can use.
CARVER
Thank you, sir.
INT. GENERAL STORE INDIANOLA - DAY
Carver has his laundry supplies piled upon the counter---tubs, washboard, flatirons, soap, starch, etc.
SALESMAN
I'll give you credit on your laundry supplies.
CARVER
Here's my last ten cents.
Can I have some beef suet and corn meal.
The salesman places them on the counter.
SALESMAN
Here you go.
INT. HALL NEXT TO THE ART ROOM AT SIMPSON - DAY
Students are coming and going, talking to each other. Carver is alone in a crowd, and the others react to his presence with surprise, scorn, study, fear, etc. He walks into the art room.
INT. ART ROOM - DAY
He walks up to MISS BUDD, a young woman, but clearly the teacher.
CARVER
Are you Miss Budd, the art teacher?
MISS BUDD
Yes.
CARVER
I'd like to enroll in painting class.
MISS BUDD
But do you meet the requirements?
Do you think it is practical for you to take up art?
CARVER
Painting is what I do best, and what I love.
MISS BUDD
All right.
I'll give you two weeks, and then we'll see.
INT. CARVER'S LAUNDRY SHACK - EVENING
The supplies have seen no use. The room has only a couple of old crates for furniture. Carver is eating some corn bread he made with the meal and water by the fire, and at the same time reading a book.
INT. ART ROOM - DAY
Carver shows a drawing of some still life fruit to Miss Budd after class.
CARVER
Miss Budd, do you think I can stay in the class?
MISS BUDD
I think so. That's pretty good, George.
It almost looks good enough to eat.
CARVER
I wish I could eat it.
MISS BUDD
What's the matter, George?
CARVER
For the past two weeks all I've had to eat
is corn meal and beef suet.
I've got a laundry set up, but nobody has come,
because nobody knows about it.
I can't pay the fee for the class.
MISS BUDD
We'll see what we can do.
INT. MRS. LISTON'S HOUSE - AFTERNOON
MRS. LISTON and Miss Budd are sitting and talking over tea.
MISS BUDD
His sketches are very sensitive,
and he seems to be a hard worker,
but I'm afraid he's starving to death,
because no one has come to his laundry.
MRS. LISTON
Well, let's tell everyone about his fine laundry,
and I'll see if I can round up
some old furniture for him.
INT. CARVER'S LAUNDRY - DAY
Mrs. Liston is handing Carver her laundry to do. She sees his sketches.
MRS. LISTON
Thursday is fine.
Oh, did you draw these?
CARVER
Yes, ma'am. In Miss Budd's class.
MRS. LISTON
I really like this one.
I'll give you two dollars for it.
CARVER
I couldn't take that much.
MRS. LISTON
Would you refuse me your art? Here take it.
CARVER
Thank you, ma'am.
INT. ART ROOM - AFTERNOON
Carver is working on an assignment as Miss Budd coaches Alice on her painting of red roses.
MISS BUDD
Alice, where is your perspective?
Here this is your final painting before graduation,
and it is desperately lacking.
She walks out the door.
CARVER
I wish she'd let me paint flowers,
instead of landscapes all the time.
ALICE
Oh darn it!
I don't think I'll ever get it right.
She throws her brush down in disgust.
CARVER
Here, let me help a little.
He picks up the brush and with a few strokes enlivens the picture considerably. The door begins to open, and fearing it is Miss Budd, Carver drops the brush and jumps back, knocking over a statue of Ajax which breaks on the floor.
MISS BUDD
George! What on earth is the matter with you?
Carver takes a broom and starts sweeping up the broken pieces of the statue.
CARVER
I never did like that Ajax.
Miss Budd starts to respond but then sees the painting of the roses.
MISS BUDD
Why that's no reason ...
Now that's the spirit of it, Alice.
Alice and Carver look at each other and burst out laughing.
ALICE
George did that.
MISS BUDD
Oh. That's very good, George.
You can do flowers now.
What would you like to copy?
CARVER
I'll do much better from memory than copying.
MISS BUDD
All right.
Alice puts the painting away and starts to leave.
ALICE
See you tomorrow.
CARVER
Goodby.
Carver starts on a fresh canvas.
MISS BUDD
What do you plan to do in life, George?
CARVER
I like painting now,
but I plan to go south and help my people.
MISS BUDD
To do what, paint?
CARVER
Lots of things, I guess.
I know a lot about plants.
MISS BUDD
You know, my father is Professor of Horticulture
at Iowa Agricultural College over at Ames.
Did you ever think about going into agriculture?
CARVER
Yes, ma'am, quite a bit.
I love flowers even more than painting.
MISS BUDD
Your paintings show that love, too.
But you can do more with living plants
than you can with pictures of them.
CARVER
I know that God has work for me to do,
and I'm sure He'll acquaint me
with what He wants me to do.
INT. PROFESSOR WILSON'S OFFICE - DAY
WILSON is moving things from the desk and stacking them up next to the wall. George knocks and then comes in.
WILSON
Please come in.
CARVER
Are you Mr. Wilson, Professor of Agriculture?
WILSON
Yes. You must be George Carver.
Since Iowa State's puny rules exclude Negroes
from the dormitory, you can move in right here.
I'm taking my office upstairs.
You can use this desk here; I have another.
And we can bring in a bed from the next room.
Will you give me a hand?
They walk into the adjacent room and carry the bed in as they talk.
WILSON
So, you're interested in agriculture, are you?
CARVER
Oh yes, I love plants.
God gave them to us for our benefit.
So I work to bring the good out in them.
WILSON
I agree with you.
I'll talk to Dr. Pammell about
getting you a job in the greenhouse.
CARVER
Oh, that would be wonderful, sir.
EXT. IOWA STATE CAMPUS - DAY
Carver meets Mrs. Liston, and they walk through campus.
CARVER
Hello, Mrs. Liston. Pleasant journey?
MRS. LISTON
Yes, fine, George, what's this I hear about
your having to eat with the servants in the basement?
CARVER
I don't mind now.
They're fine people, and we have a good time.
MRS. LISTON
Can I join you for lunch today, George?
CARVER
Wouldn't you rather eat upstairs?
MRS. LISTON
I asked to join you, didn't I?
INT. BASEMENT BELOW CAFETERIA - DAY
Carver and Mrs. Liston are seated eating at an old table with a gardener, janitor, and a kitchen helper.
JANITOR
George says that no man can degrade us;
he can only degrade himself.
CARVER
You see, a person only treats another as inferior,
because in some way he feels inferior himself,
and tries to cover it up by acting superior.
MRS. LISTON
In other words, if I inflict degradation on you,
I am really the one who is degraded, not you.
CARVER
Certainly. Did not Jesus demonstrate this for us?
The cafeteria MANAGER walks into the room.
MANAGER
George Carver?
CARVER
Yes.
MANAGER
It has been decided that as a student of the college,
you are to dine in the main room from now on.
CARVER
Yes, sir.
The manager goes out.
CARVER
It has been very good
sharing these meals with you folks,
but now God wants me
up there with the other students.
You understand.
KITCHEN HELPER
Sure, George.
You show 'em a thing or two, okay?
CARVER
I'll do that, Sam; I'll do that.
INT. GEOMETRY CLASS - DAY
Students are receiving their exam papers back from the teacher, MR. STEVENS.
GEOMETRY STUDENT
How do you think you did on the first test, George?
CARVER
An A of course. I got 'em all right.
MR. STEVENS
Huntington B plus. Stewart C. Thomas A minus.
Carver Fail. Phillips B. Well, that's it.
CARVER
But Mr. Stevens, all my answers were correct.
I even checked the book after the exam.
MR. STEVENS
That may be, Carver,
but your assumption
on the first statement was wrong,
and you can't reach a correct conclusion
from a wrong hypothesis.
INT. CAFETERIA - EVENING
Carver is sitting at a table with ten COLLEGIANS, and there are other tables the same size occupied throughout the dining room.
COLLEGIAN #1
George, how do you like
being at table number twelve?
CARVER
Oh fine, but I think we can liven it up a bit.
COLLEGIAN #2
Any ideas?
CARVER
Has everyone here taken organic chemistry,
mineralogy, and botany?
COLLEGIAN #2
Just about; those are basic courses.
CARVER
Okay, what's this called?
He holds up the salt shaker.
COLLEGIAN #3
Sodium Chloride.
CARVER
How about this?
He holds up the sugar bowl.
COLLEGIAN #2
Sugar.
CARVER
I'll never pass it to you with that name.
This we call C twelve H twenty-two O eleven.
You see, this way we can learn the scientific names
by making a game out of it.
COLLEGIAN #2
Okay, let's do it. Everybody agree?
COLLEGIANS
Yeah.
COLLEGIAN #4
Salt and pepper, please.
He hasn't been listening, but the others have, and nobody moves.
COLLEGIAN #3
You have to use the scientific names
to get anything at this table.
COLLEGIAN #4
Oh. Let's see. Please pass the Na Cl.
COLLEGIAN #2
Here you go.
He passes the salt.
COLLEGIAN #4
What's pepper?
CARVER
We all have some studying to do.
Carver whispers to him.
CARVER
Try piper nigrum.
COLLEGIAN #4
Piper nigrum, please.
CARVER
Here you go, boy.
He passes the pepper to him.
INT. GREENHOUSE - DAY
Carver and DR. PAMMELL are working potting plants side by side.
CARVER
I had an argument with my botany teacher today.
DR. PAMMELL
About what?
CARVER
He wants everybody to memorize
certain kinds of leaves
before we ever study the plants themselves.
Everybody is bored.
I can see why students end up hating botany.
DR. PAMMELL
How would you do it?
CARVER
First I'd put plants with similar characteristics in groups.
See how the leaf on this begonia is shaped like a shield?
Every plant in this family has leaves shaped like this.
This way it could be understood more easily.
INT. CLASSROOM - NIGHT
Carver is the only one in the classroom, and is performing his janitorial work sweeping the floor.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - DAY
Carver is with the team in the outfield. The batter hits a grounder to the first baseman who fields it and races the batter for the base. They collide, and the first baseman has hurt his arm. The COACH comes out and looks.
COACH
Hey George, come on in and play first base.
Carver runs in and comes to the group where the injured player is. He looks at Carver as though for help.
CARVER
Here, let me give you a hand.
He walks the player to the bench, and as he does, he rubs the injured arm.
FIRST BASEMAN
Hey, that really helps a lot.
The pain seems to be going away.
How about giving me a rubdown after the game?
CARVER
All right.
INT. ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM - DAY
Carver is massaging the First Baseman's arm. The coach walks in.
FIRST BASEMAN
My arms feels better now than it ever did.
COACH
Hey, maybe you can help Lefty's pitchin' arm.
Come over here Lefty.
Give him a rubdown, George.
Here, use some oil on it.
LEFTY
Hey, this feels good.
I bet I can throw twice as hard now.
COACH
You got the magic touch, George.
How about being our official rubber?
CARVER
Anything I can do to help.
INT. CLASSROOM - EVENING
On the blackboard is written "Eclectic Society." The room is adorned with potted plants and paintings. Students in the class are listening to Carver recite from the front of the classroom. He holds a potted flower in his hand.
CARVER
"Flower in the crannied wall,
I pluck you out of the crannies,
I hold you here, root and all, in my hand,
Little flower---but if I could understand
What you are, root and all, and all in all,
I should know what God and man is."
INT. SCIENCE LABORATORY - DAY
Carver is on the floor scrubbin with a rag and a bucket of water next to him. He is humming "Swing Low Sweet Chariot."
EXT. COUNTRY - DAY
Carver is painting his "Yucca gloriosa."
INT. PROF. WILSON'S HOUSE - DAY
Prof. Wilson and PROF. BUDD are there waiting for Carver. His friends escort Carver in.
MR. WILSON
Hello, George. It's nice to see you
in a decent suit of clothes for a change.
CARVER
Good day, Professor Wilson, Professor Budd.
My friends kidnapped me
and bought these clothes for me.
I'm supposed to be working now over at Dr. Brady's.
MR. WILSON
You've been working hard enough, George.
We don't want you coming down with anemia
and distraught nerves again.
PROF. BUDD
Besides, you're going to Cedar Rapids
for the Teachers Association art exhibit.
CARVER
But ...
MR. WILSON
We all felt Iowa Agriculture
should have its best representation.
PROF. BUDD
My daughter who taught you at Simpson
told us to enter your Roses, Peonies,
Yucca gloriosa, and Vase of Flowers,
and that they'd surely win prizes.
MR. WILSON
See, they're all in the program here,
and here's your train ticket.
He hands Carver the program, and he sees his name and paintings are entered. Tears are in his eyes as he expresses his gratitude.
CARVER
Thank you. Thank you all so much.
INT. CLASSROOM - LATE AFTERNOON
Prof. Wilson is just concluding his Bible class.
MR. WILSON
So you see, he was a fisher of men,
and he and his disciples helped people
to find their way into eternal salvation.
Next week: the master's power of healing.
The students disperse, but Prof. Wilson moves to talk with Carver.
MR. WILSON
Oh George, I hear your paintings all won prizes,
and the Yucca gloriosa has been selected
for the World Exposition in Chicago.
Congratulations.
CARVER
Thank you, sir.
MR. WILSON
If you pursued art,
you could become a great painter.
CARVER
I think the Creator has other work for me to do.
MR. WILSON
What kind of work, George?
CARVER
I can be of more assistance to my race
and humanity through agriculture.
INT. GREENHOUSE - DAY
Dr. Pammell and Carver are admiring several amaryllis flowers.
DR. PAMMELL
Here is the living work of your thesis---
"Plants as Modified by Man."
Now that you've graduated,
what do you plan to do now?
CARVER
I haven't thought much about it.
Maybe some small school will take me on.
DR. PAMMELL
Glad to have you with us, Mr. Carver.
You've been given the position
as my assistant of the experiment station,
and I give you complete charge over the greenhouse.
If you'd like the job, that is.
CARVER
Oh yes! I would very much like the job.
DR. PAMMELL
Then it's settled.
We can work together on the advanced studies
of plant diseases and their treatments.
How many specimens have you collected so far?
CARVER
About six thousand, but I'm sure I'll be able
to double my collection in the next year.
EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - MORNING
Carver is collecting plant specimens and placing them in his satchel. HENRY, a six-year-old boy, is running down the slope of a hill when he sees Carver. He walks over to him.
HENRY
Hi, whatcha doin'?
CARVER
I'm collecting plants for the college.
HENRY
My daddy works at the college, too,
but he studies cows, not plants.
CARVER
Do you see this growth along here?
That's a fungus, like toadstool or mildew.
It lives off plants.
HENRY
I'd like to know more about plants.
CARVER
What's your name?
HENRY
Henry Wallace.
Have you ever heard of Wallace's Farmer?
CARVER
Yes, I have. Ooh, here's a nice plant
I'd like to breed with another.
HENRY
What does "breed" mean?
CARVER
Like when your father wants to get better milk,
he takes a good bull and a good cow,
and he breeds them together,
so their offspring will have really good milk.
HENRY
I can figure that out,
but what's that got to do with plants?
CARVER
Well, you see plants breed and have offspring, too.
HENRY
How do they do that?
CARVER
See this stuff in the flower. That's the pollen.
This pollen mixes with the flower of another plant,
usually by bees that go from flower to flower
gathering pollen for honey.
This is God's process, and since we understand it,
we can mix the pollen ourselves,
and help God grow better plants to help man.
HENRY
You mean we can make plants
better than they already are?
CARVER
We can make them more useful to us.
All we have to do is learn God's plan.
EXT. TUSKEGEE STREET - EVENING
SUPER: TUSKEGEE, ALABAMA 1895
WILEY HARRIS is calling to his father in the house.
WILEY HARRIS
Dad, it's past six,
and they're comin' to lynch you.
Down the street is approaching a mob of white men carrying torches and guns. TOM HARRIS runs out of the house and sees the mob. He goes next door where JOHN ALEXANDER, a white man, is at his gate. On the porch are his TWO DAUGHTERS. Tom Harris runs over to Alexander's gate.
TOM HARRIS
Mr. Alexander, let me go through your house,
and then I'll run out the back.
JOHN ALEXANDER
No, no, my daughters are on the porch.
John Alexander grabs Tom Harris, as he tries to run by, and they wrestle with each other. Tom Harris pushes Alexander ahead of him into the yard. The mob arrives and enters the yard after them. In the confusion a man puts a pistol within a foot of Tom Harris, but as he pulls the trigger, Tom Harris ducks. The bullet goes into the neck of John Alexander. Tom Harris runs out the gate and towards his own house. Another shot wounds him in the leg.
MOB PERSON #1
We need a doctor here!
This man's been shot by mistake.
TWO WHITE PHYSICIANS rush past Tom Harris to attend to Alexander. Then Wiley Harris helps his father into their house.
EXT. WASHINGTON'S HOUSE - NIGHT
Wiley Harris has helped Tom Harris to the front door, and he knocks loudly. Washington answers the door.
WILEY HARRIS
Sir, my father needs a doctor. Can we come in?
WASHINGTON
Is that Tom Harris, the lawyer?
TOM HARRIS
Yes, sir. Please, help me.
WASHINGTON
Not here. Can you ride a horse?
TOM HARRIS
I think so. It's my leg.
WASHINGTON
I'll take you to a doctor.
Don't go in the house.
I'll get the horses.
Washington brings three horses. He helps Wiley put Tom on one of the horses, and they all ride off together.
EXT. WASHINGTON'S HOUSE - LATER THAT NIGHT
A smaller mob with torches approaches the front door and knocks on it. Washington answers the door.
WASHINGTON
What do you want?
MOB PERSON #2
We're lookin' for Tom Harris
and heard he came here.
MOB PERSON #3
We don't want no nigger lawyers in Tuskegee.
Did you take him in your house?
WASHINGTON
No, I can't take in every Negro in trouble.
MOB PERSON #2
Are you sure he wasn't here?
WASHINGTON
He was here all right,
but I didn't let him in my house.
MOB PERSON #2
All right, let's go.
Washington closes the door, and the mob leaves.
INT. ATLANTA EXPOSITION AUDITORIUM - LATE AFTERNOON
The large auditorium is packed with people, whites in the main section on the floor and the Negroes on the sides and in the balconies. Over the platform a large sign reads ATLANTA EXPOSITION. Seated on the platform are BISHOP NELSON, ALBERT HOWELL, MRS. JOSEPH THOMPSON, and Booker T. Washington. GOVERNOR BULLOCK is speaking.
GOVERNOR BULLOCK
We have with us today
the President of Tuskegee Institute in Alabama,
a representative of Negro enterprise
and Negro civilization:
Professor Booker T. Washington.
The crowd, especially the Negroes, applauds and cheers enthusiastically now, and at key places in his speech. The sun is shining brightly through the windows directly at Washington. He turns his head and moves uneasily about the platform as he addresses the directors. When he gets to "Citizens," he forgets the sun is in his eyes and looks directly at the people in the audience as he speaks with tremendous power. During the speech are intercut many historical photographs of Negroes and the South from 1865 to 1895.
WASHINGTON
Mr. President
and Gentlemen of the Board of Directors
and Citizens:
One-third of the population of the South
is of the Negro race.
No enterprise seeking the material, civil,
or moral welfare of this section
can disregard this element of our population
and reach the highest success.
A ship lost at sea for many days
suddenly sighted a friendly vessel.
From the mast of the unfortunate vessel
was seen a signal,
"Water, water; we die of thirst!"
The answer from the friendly vessel
at once came back,
"Cast down your bucket where you are."
A second time the signal,
"Water, water; send us water!"
ran up from the distressed vessel,
and was answered,
"Cast down your bucket where you are."
And a third and fourth signal for water
was answered,
"Cast down your bucket where you are."
The captain of the distressed vessel,
at last heeding the injunction,
cast down his bucket,
and it came up full of fresh, sparkling water
from the mouth of the Amazon River.
To those of my race I would say:
"Cast down your bucket where you are"---
cast it down in making friends
in every manly way with the people of all races.
Cast it down in agriculture, mechanics, in commerce,
in domestic service, and in the professions.
Whatever other sins the South may be called to bear,
when it comes to business, pure and simple,
it is in the South that the Negro is given
a man's chance in the commercial world.
Our greatest danger is that
in the great leap from slavery to freedom
we may overlook the fact that the masses of us
are to live by the productions of our hands,
that we shall prosper in proportion
as we learn to dignify and glorify common labor
and put brains and skill
into the common occupations of life;
shall prosper in proportion
as we learn to draw the line
between the superficial and the substantial,
the ornamental gewgaws of life and the useful.
No race can prosper
till it learns that there is as much dignity
in tilling a field as in writing a poem.
It is at the bottom of life we must begin,
and not at the top.
Nor should we permit our grievances
to overshadow our opportunities.
To those of the white race
I would repeat what I say to my own race,
"Cast down your bucket where you are."
Cast it down among the eight millions of Negroes
whose habits you know,
whose fidelity and love you have tested
in days when to have proved treacherous
meant the ruin of your firesides.
Cast down your bucket among these people who have,
without strikes and labor wars,
tilled your fields, cleared your forests,
builded your railroads and cities,
and brought forth treasures from the bowels of the earth.
Casting down your bucket among my people,
helping and encouraging them
to education of head, hand, and heart,
you will find that they will buy your surplus land,
make blossom the waste places in your fields,
and run your factories.
While doing this, you can be sure that
you and your families will be surrounded
by the most patient, faithful, law-abiding,
and unresentful people that the world has ever seen.
Let us interlace our industrial, commercial, civil,
and religious life with yours in a way
that shall make the interests of both races one.
In all things that are purely social
we can be as separate as the fingers,
yet one as the hand
in all things essential to mutual progress.
There is no defense or security for any of us
except in the highest intelligence
and development of all.
If anywhere there are efforts
tending to curtail the fullest growth of the Negro,
let these efforts be turned into stimulating, encouraging,
and making him the most useful and intelligent citizen.
Effort or means so invested
will pay a thousand percent interest.
These efforts will be twice blessed---
"blessing him that gives and him that takes."
There is no escape through law of man or God
from the inevitable:---
The laws of changeless justice bind
Oppressor with oppressed;
And close as sin and suffering joined
We march to fate abreast.
Nearly sixteen millions of hands
will aid you in pulling the load upward,
or they will pull against you the load downward.
We shall constitute one-third and more
of the ignorance and crime of the South,
or one-third its intelligence and progress;
we shall contribute one-third
to the business and industrial prosperity of the South,
or we shall prove a veritable body of death,
stagnating, depressing, retarding every effort
to advance the body politic.
Starting thirty years ago with ownership here and there
in a few quilts and pumpkins and chickens
(gathered from miscellaneous sources),
our path that has led from these
to the inventions and production
of agricultural implements, buggies, steam-engines,
newspapers, books, statuary, carving, paintings,
the management of drug-stores and banks,
has not been trodden without
contact with thorns and thistles.
We take pride in our independent efforts,
and recognize the help
that has come to our educational life
from the philanthropists who have made their gifts
a constant stream of blessing and encouragement.
The wisest among my race understand
that the agitation of questions of social equality
is the extremest folly,
and that progress in the enjoyment of all privileges
that will come to us must be the result
of severe and constant struggle
rather than of artificial forcing.
No race that has anything to contribute
to the markets of the world
is long in any degree ostracized.
It is important and right
that all privileges of the law be ours,
but it is vastly more important
that we be prepared
for the exercises of these privileges.
The opportunity to earn a dollar in a factory
just now is worth infinitely more than
the opportunity to spend a dollar in an opera-house.
In conclusion, I pledge that
in your effort to work out
the great and intricate problem
which God has laid at the doors of the South,
you shall have at all times
the patient, sympathetic help of my race.
From this exposition of the products of field,
of forest, of mine, of factory, letters, and art,
much good will come,
yet far above and beyond material benefits
will be that higher good, that,
let us pray God, will come,
in a blotting out of sectional differences
and racial animosities and suspicions,
in a determination to administer absolute justice,
in a willing obedience among all classes
to the mandates of law.
This, this, coupled with our material prosperity,
will bring into our beloved South
a new heaven and a new earth.
There is a momentary silence and then tremendous applause and cheering. Most of the white people are smiling and clapping while many of the colored people are flowing tears. Governor Bullock and others on the platform rush up to Washington to shake his hand and congratulate him.
EXT. IOWA STATE CAMPUS GARDEN - DAY
Carver and Prof. Wilson are casually walking and talking.
MR. WILSON
So, Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College
in Mississippi has offered you
the Chair of Agriculture.
CARVER
Yes, I got a letter from them
asking me to come down there.
MR. WILSON
We would hate to lose you.
With your knowledge of cross-fertilization,
and even the anatomy and physiology of animals,
you could be teaching our classes here.
But I know you want to go South
and help your people.
Do you think this is the job for you?
CARVER
I must seek our Creator's guidance on this.
INT. EDUCATIONAL MEETING IN CEDAR RAPIDS - DAY
Booker T. Washington is addressing a small group.
WASHINGTON
Why is it that the South today
is bound to a body of death?
Five-cent cotton is like the man hugging the bear,
and can't turn him loose,
simply because the farmers of the South
are not intelligent enough to raise a diversified crop.
Many were taken from the farm and educated,
but were educated in everything except agriculture.
Hence they had no sympathy with farm-life,
and did not return to their farms.
Scientific education applied will enable
the black boy who comes from a plantation
where ten bushels of corn were being raised,
to return to the farm
and raise fifty bushels on the same acre.
The great need of the Negro today is education.
He concludes his speech, and the audience applauds and starts to leave. A BLACK LISTENER approaches Washington and shakes his hand.
BLACK LISTENER
I'm honored to shake the hand
of another educated freedman.
WASHINGTON
We're trying to do our part.
BLACK LISTENER
Not all like you, but there is one other---
George Washington Carver.
WASHINGTON
Carver? I don't know him.
BLACK LISTENER
He's the Negro expert in soils and botany
who teaches at Iowa State University.
WASHINGTON
A Negro teaching at Iowa State University?
BLACK LISTENER
He's a genius, all right.
Can raise corn on a wooden floor!
The man laughs and walks away into the crowd.
INT. DR. WASHINGTON'S OFFICE TUSKEGEE - MORNING
Washington is seated at his desk completing a letter. We hear his words spoken in his mind as he writes.
WASHINGTON (v. o.)
The children, barefoot,
come for miles over bad roads.
They are thin and in rags.
You would not understand such poverty.
These people do not know how to plant or harvest.
I am not skilled at such things.
I teach them how to read, to write,
to make good shoes, good bricks,
and how to build a wall.
I cannot give them food, and so they starve.
EXT. WOODS BY A RIVER - MORNING
Carver is now reading the letter, as we continue to hear Washington's voice. After "starve" Carver ponders, gazing at the river. Then he continues to read the letter, and we hear Washington's voice again.
WASHINGTON (v. o.)
I cannot offer you money, position, or fame.
The first two you have.
The last, from the place you now occupy,
you will no doubt achieve.
These things I now ask you to give up.
I offer you in their place work---
hard, hard work---
the task of bringing a people from
degradation, poverty and waste to full manhood.
Carver takes a small notebook from his pocket, quickly writes a few words on it and tears it off.
EXT. TUSKEGEE CAMPUS - NOON
Washington walking along, opens a letter, pulls out the small piece of paper that reads: "I will come. G. W. Carver." He smiles happily with new hope.
-end of Part One-
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