popular among his classmates at Central High School. He was the only Negro in his class and was a member of the Literary Society, editor of the student publication, and composer of the class song at his graduation (Van Doren 296, Columbus). Dunbar’s first published poem was called "Our Martyred Soldiers". It appeared in the Dayton Herald on June 8, 1888. In 1891 Paul graduated from Central High School (Revell 11-12). After graduation, Paul had to work as an elevator boy in Dayton’s Callahan Building and later as a page at a Dayton court house(Revell 11 ). He was forced to work at places such as these because some businesses were reluctant to hire him because of his race (Columbus). Dunbar’s first poetry collection, "Oak and Ivy" was published in 1892 (Howard). "Oak and Ivy" consisted of fifty-six poems, thirty-six of which were later discarded by Dunbar (Revell p.29) To help pay for the publishing fee and printing supplies he sold the book of poem to customers who rode the elevator for $1.00 (Columbus). meanwhile he continued writing for various national newspapers and magazines for a little extra income. Paul 3 quickly achieved a reputation in his hometown as a poet and frequently was invited to recite his works for various clubs and organizations. Many times people would recommend his books to friends, spreading word of his talents (Howard). In general, Dunbar’s poetry was accepted and well-liked (Poupard). This landed him an invitation to recite his poetry at the first World’s Fair at Chicago in 1893. Here, he worked as clerk at a Haitian pavilion where he met Fredrick Douglass and other black speakers and writers (Revell 102). Douglass called Paul Laurence Dunbar "The most promising young colored man in America." (Howard).1895 brought Dunbar’s move to Toledo, Ohio and the publishing of his second collection of poetry, "Majors and Minors" (Columbus). Eleven poems from "Oak and ...
