Adam's Reports on Vernacular Education in Bengal and Behar/Report 1/Section 9

SECTION IX.

The District of Backergunge.

Population.—This district was formed about the year 1800 from the southern portion of Dacca Jelalpoor, and the Courts of Justice and revenue are held at Burisal. In 1801, the total population was estimated at 926,723 inhabitants in the proportion of five Hindoos to three Mahomedans, many of whom reside in boats the whole year. In 1584, a part of this district was overwhelmed by an inundation, succeeded by Mugh invasions, aided by the Portuguese of Chittagong; from the combined effects of which, it is said not to have recovered to the present day. A great destruction of life and property by inundation occurred in 1822. In the southern quarter of the district there still exist several Portuguese colonies of probably two centuries’ duration.

Indigenous Schools.—I have not been able to obtain any information respecting indigenous schools, either elementary or learned, in this district, and I can only infer from the known state of education in other districts that here also such institutions must exist, although they have not in any way come under public notice. The Collector in 1823 reported that no endowments or funds for the purposes of education existed in the district.

Native Female Schools.—In 1834, there was a Native girls’ school at Backergunge in connection with the Serampore mission, having 18 scholars in attendance. The prospects of success are said to be pleasing, and the common course of education is pursued with as good results as the circumstances and the tender age of the children will permit.