Education in Kula (Late 19th- early 20th century)

In the study, traditional and modern educational institutions in Kula during the reign of Abdulhamid II were reviewed. Kula District, which remained connected to Kütahya Sanjak until 1852, was connected to Saruhan Sanjak in the same year due to its closeness to Manisa. The important production sectors of Kula District depended on agriculture and stockbreeding. It was also an important district in the manufacture of carpets and prayer rugs. Also, pumice stones and marble mines were located in the district. Ottoman primary schools, one of the traditional educational institutions in Kula, continued their activities in the 19th century. Ottoman elementary schools were opened in Kula Town according to the Jadid method in the 1880s, and District Governor Abdi Bey played an important role in the opening of these schools. He had important duties in the advancement of education in Kula. During this period, four boys' elementary schools and one girls' elementary school were opened in Kula Town. Madrasahs, another traditional educational institution, continued their activities in the mentioned period. There were four madrasas in the Kula District in the mentioned period. These madrasahs were generally established with the help of the community. The junior high school, one of the modern educational institutions in Kula, was opened at a late date. It was decided to be opened in 1870, but it was opened in 1884. Financial impossibilities were one of the main reasons for this delay. Ahmed Nuri Efendi served as the main teacher in the school for many years. He served in the school for nearly twenty years, gained the appreciation of the community, and was even promoted due to his achievements. Apprentice School, another educational institution in Kula Town, was opened in 1900. Approximately 70 apprentices of artisans attended the school. Halil Efendi was the first teacher appointed to the school. The Greeks had a significant population in Kula Town. Greeks resided in Kuzguncuk and Hızırilyas neighborhoods. In Kula Town, there was a Greek elementary school, a Greek boys' elementary and secondary school, and a Greek girls' elementary and secondary school. There was also a French school in Kula Town. Keywords: Abdulhamid II, Education, Kula, Primary School, Elementary School, Madrasa, Secondary School, Greek School, Apprentice School