Dennis High School facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Dennis High School
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Dennis High School, February 2013
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 Location in South Carolina
Location in the United States
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| Location | 410 W. Cedar Ln., Bishopville, South Carolina |
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| Area | 1.2 acres (0.49 ha) |
| Built | 1936 |
| Built by | E.C.B. Construction Company |
| Architect | Edgeworth and McBride |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival |
| MPS | African--American Primary and Secondary School Buildings MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 04001565 |
| Added to NRHP | January 26, 2005 |
Dennis High School was a very important school in Bishopville, South Carolina. It was built especially for African-American students during a time when schools were separated by race. This was known as "separate but equal" education. However, the schools were often not equal at all.
For example, a school for white students, Bishopville High School, was built nearby. It cost much more money to build. Dennis High School was built for $17,000, while Bishopville High School cost $71,000. This meant that each Black student at Dennis High School received only $5.68 for their education. White students at Bishopville High School received $48.38 per student. This shows a big difference in how much money was spent on each student.
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A School for Black Students
Dennis High School was the only school in the county for Black students. It served students from all over the area. For many years, there was no public bus service to help students get to school. Students had to find their own way until 1952, when bus service finally started.
Challenges Faced by Students
The students at Dennis High School faced many challenges. At one point, the school building burned down. Instead of building a new high school right away, Black high school students had to share classrooms with elementary students. This lasted for 12 years, making it difficult for everyone to learn.
The School Building
The original Dennis High School building was shaped like the letter "L". It was a one-story building made of red brick. The style of the building is called Colonial Revival. This style often looks like older, grand buildings.
The building had a main section with two matching wings on the sides. The third wing, which made the building L-shaped, held the school's auditorium. In 1954, an extra classroom was added to the building.
A Place in History
Dennis High School is recognized for its important role in history. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005. This means it is a special place that is protected because of its historical importance. It reminds us of a time when education was not fair for everyone and the struggles many students faced.
