In order that this major Protestant elementary educational system in Indiana may become better knovm and understood, the memory of' the early Lutheran educators may be preserved, the remnants of their noble achievements may be chronicled, and the records of' the early history of' education in Indiana may be supplemented and corrected, this study has been projected.

This discourse presents significant data relating to major developments in the elementary school system of the Central District of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Missouri, Ohio, and Other States. Some inferences are made which are based on information pertaining to the school system of the entire synod. These data, however, are used and interpreted as it affects the schools in this district.