Author: africanamericanhighschoolsinlouisianabefore1970

Jonas Henderson High School New Iberia, Louisiana

July 28, 2018

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Jonas Henderson High School

 

Jonas Henderson High School, New Iberia , Louisiana, traces its origin to Howe Institute , a denominational effort. This effort is consistent with African American educational efforts throughout the state of Louisiana. New Iberia Training School evolved to become  the den of the Tigers. Professor Jonas Henderson was present for fifty-four years to guide  and to nurture the students. The school moved to several locations, maintaining its integrity until integration in 1969, when it became New Iberia Freshman High School. The Tigers leave a legacy of pride, self-reliance , integrity,  citizenship and accomplishment.

50 Years Later – Louisiana’s Black High Schools Finally Get Their Own Webpages

July 9, 2018

A couple months ago, all of the schools were linked to pdf files, which would show some history or a yearbook. You would have to scroll a 3-200 page pdf file (700 for one school – find out which one!!!) and pass through every yearbook in order to find the yearbook or picture that you really wanted to see.

THOSE DAYS ARE OVER!!!!!!

Every school is now receiving a webpage!!! For many of these schools, it will be their largest presence on the web.

Though most schools ceased operation in 1970, alumni and actions toward the schools still make the news to this day and we would like to share them with you.

A video of a high school reunion making the news can’t be seen on a pdf.  A video of an alumnus protecting his school from destruction can’t be seen in a pdf. These moments can only be seen with a web page.

In the meantime,

Thank you for all the yearbooks, articles and pictures you have sent so far!!!

If you have any internet links or videos online pertaining to your schools, please send the links to us and we’ll add them to the site!!!

 

 

 

Southern University’s 51st Anniversary

July 8, 2018

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Southern University is significant in Louisiana history because it provided an avenue of higher education attainment for many African Americans who would not have had the opportunity due to segregation of the races. The State Legislative Act 87 incorporated the institution. Its doors opened in March 7, 1881 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The University existed there until Legislative Act 118  closed the New Orleans location and established a new Campus on Scott’s Bluff in Baton Rouge. The original charter was retained.

The March 9, 1965 edition of the Southern University Digest was dedicated to the history of Southern University after its move to Baton Rouge, Louisiana in 1914. An interesting editorial questioned the exclusion of thirty-years from its existence. The entire newspaper was presented to let the reader get a situational glimpse of the facilities, the Vietnam-era times and our thoughts at that time.

Interestingly, Southern University provided the inspiration for competition for  African American High Schools in the state. The Louisiana Interscholastic Athletic and Literary Association (LIALO, LIALA) was established in 1928 to bridge the gap for African American students in secondary schools so their success could be realized. The Significant Notes, History Section on this website contains a Southern University Digest publication, March 9, 1965, Number 11.  A detailed history of Southern University can be found.

 

Booker T. Washington High School, Shreveport, Louisiana

June 24, 2018

BTW HS

Booker T. Washington High School, Shreveport, Louisiana   Booker T. Washington High School was iconic, not only for African American high schools ,but, for  all American high schools. The school’s architecture bridged the gap from the previous architecture and technologically the school soared. The Lions were positioned at the top of the hill. Their history is compelling, their exploits are sources of admiration and pride for the state of Louisiana. The Lions are still on the prowl today.

Booker T. Washington High School, New Orleans, Louisiana, Orleans Parish

June 5, 2018

 

BTW Lions

     The story of two schools, one in New Orleans, the other in Shreveport, the story of two Lion siblings caught at the crossroads of migration and integration, the dreams of two men, Booker T. Washington and Julius Rosenwald, came to fruition in an enormous way. Both were successes. The Lions in New Orleans were established in 1942. Many accomplished artisans in a wide range of fields walked through its hallways with the world at its door steps. The Lions dared to take the step and the rest is history. Part of their development can be glimpsed by viewing the Lion’s lair. Three yearbooks from the early to mid-1950’s are displayed to show their origins and their prowess.

Chaneyville High School, Zachary, Louisiana, East Baton Rouge Parish

June 2, 2018

 

Cheneyville High dragon

  Mythical dragons were interested in gold. The Chaneyville High School Dragons were gold seekers as well. A goal short of first place was not tenable. The Dragons were fiery fierce competitors. Their beginnings were in community churches and donations of land and money were expectations of the times. The community was very generous and the Dragons thrived. The Dragons were a proud group and they had dreams and accomplishments. This web site is enriched by the golden addition of the Chaneyville High School Dragons.

Union Central High School, Columbia, Louisiana, Caldwell Parish

May 28, 2018

panther mascot

Union Central High School, Columbia, Louisiana, Caldwell Parish    The origins of Union Central  High School is a testament to the foresight and the determination of a group of African Americans who valued education. It’s beginnings were traced to the late 1800’s when church and community schools formed the backbone of a healthy civic support system. The various schools consolidated , hence, Union Central High School was established. Its first high school graduate was in 1937. The Panthers endured and thrived until they were closed with the advent of integration. Their story is our story.

Richwood High School, Monroe Louisiana, Ouachita Parish

May 16, 2018

Richwood High School

Richwood High School, Monroe Louisiana, Ouachita Parish     They were “Ram Tough” from their origins, and after a brief hiatus, they exist today. The Rams entered the football scene with competitiveness and fierceness not realized in Louisiana high school football. Their ferocity continues today. Their initial entry onto this site is their 1974 yearbook. More information regarding the Rams will be presented later.