Bettis Academy and Junior College facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Bettis Academy and Junior College
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Bettis Academy and Junior College, March 2012
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 Location in South Carolina
Location in the United States
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| Location | Junction of Bettis Academy Rd. and Nicholson Rd., near Trenton, South Carolina |
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| Area | 2.8 acres (1.1 ha) |
| Built | 1935, 1939, 1942 |
| Architectural style | Bungalow/craftsman |
| NRHP reference No. | 98000560 |
| Added to NRHP | May 20, 1998 |
Bettis Academy and Junior College was a special school for African American students. It was located near Trenton, South Carolina. This school was important because it helped educate many students during a time when opportunities were limited. It operated from 1881 until 1952. Today, the area is a historic district, meaning it's a place with important history.
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What Was Bettis Academy?
Bettis Academy was founded by Reverend Alexander Bettis. He was a former enslaved person who believed strongly in education. The school provided education for African American students from elementary grades through junior college. It was a Baptist school, meaning it had ties to the Baptist church.
A School for African Americans
During the time Bettis Academy was open, many schools in the United States were segregated. This meant Black and white students went to separate schools. Bettis Academy played a vital role in providing education for African American youth in South Carolina. It offered a chance for many to learn and grow.
Important Buildings Still Stand
Even though the school closed in 1952, some of its original buildings are still there. These buildings were built in the last 20 years of the school's operation. They show us what the campus looked like.
The Alexander Bettis Community Library
One important building is the Alexander Bettis Community Library. It was built in 1939. The outside of the building is made of rock. Students at the school actually helped build this library. It was first part of the Faith Cabin Libraries, which were small libraries for African American communities.
The Classroom Building
Another building is the Classroom Building, built in 1935. This building has walls made of stuccoed brick. It was where students would have attended their classes.
Biddle Hall
Biddle Hall was built in 1942. It has a style called Colonial Revival, and its outside is also made of rock. This building was another important part of the school's campus.
Why Is It Historic?
Bettis Academy and Junior College was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998. This means it is recognized as a place important to the history of the United States. It helps us remember the challenges and triumphs of education for African Americans.
