Landmark Changes for Carbondale: A Brief History on the Opening and Closing of Attucks School

Crispus Attucks School

Children growing up in Carbondale haven’t always been educated in an integrated system.  In 1919 a new school was started for blacks in Carbondale.   This school was Attucks School, a school for the black children in the community to attend.  Mr. W.B. Lewis served as principal along with four other teachers to educate the students of the African American Community.

The school was named after Crispus Attucks.  Crispus Attucks was born into slavery before 1750.  He was a runaway slave who was the first to die in the Boston Massacre, and was coincidentally, the first casualty in the American Revolution. 

In 1920 a high school was organized within the school.  In 1948 a new Attucks High School building was built next to the elementary school, because enrollment had increased.

The school formed a strong foundation within the African American community.  Parents, staff, and local churches worked together to raise the students to be intelligent, respectful individuals.  The school had boasting rights with many student organizations, outstanding athletic teams and worthy academics. 
The high school closed in 1964 and the students were integrated into Carbondale Community High School.  In 1969 the elementary school closed and students were bussed to other Carbondale elementary schools to create balance racially.

Attucks School Song
Composed by Ernest Gibson, class of 1930

Attucks! We Love old Attucks,
We love her grounds and her buildings too;
All here are fine and steady
And her teachers all are ever brave and true
Rah! Rah! Rah!
Her sun is always shining,
Her skies are always blue,
Attucks! We love old Attucks,
And we pledge our loyalty to you.
Attucks! Of thee dear Attucks,
We raise our voices in Lofty praise.
Long may you live and prosper,
And your students will your flag of honor raise.
Rah! Rah! Rah!
Attucks! Beloved Attucks,
Arrayed in honor you’re brave and true.
Attucks! We love old Attucks,
And we hope to ever love you too.

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