Category: New Information

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.

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.

Eula D. Britton High School, Rayville, Louisiana, Richland Parish

May 6, 2018

dragon 1964 cover

Eula D. Britton High School, Rayville, Louisiana, Richland Parish    The 1964 Dragons  had ideas of greatness and they did succeed at making an impact upon the high school scene in basketball. A golden championship pleased the Dragons and their followers. Their roar extended beyond the time of their reign. Another year book from 1964 was added and this one was gilded in gold. The Dragon reveals itself.

 

Union High School, Mer Rouge, Louisiana, Morehouse Parish

March 10, 2018

dragonUnion High School, Mer Rouge, Louisiana, Morehouse Parish    The name was indicative of its origin, the united communities. The red soil, Mer Rouge, was reflected in its mascot , the red fire-breathing dragon. The school had much to cheer, much to love and they felt loved. A detailed   history  gives one the impression of a well organized and vibrant high school experience.