Hayden High School (Franklin, Virginia) facts for kids
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Hayden High School
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Hayden High School in Franklin, Virginia, July 2020
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 Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | 610-678 Oak St., Franklin, Virginia |
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| Area | 5.873 acres (2.377 ha) |
| Built | 1952-1953, 1969 |
| Built by | Silas S. Kea & Sons |
| Architect | Dixon, Washington Irving (W. I.) |
| NRHP reference No. | 12001268 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | February 5, 2013 |
Hayden High School was a very important school for African-American students in Franklin, Virginia. The main building was finished in 1953. It was a two-story brick building shaped like the letter "L". Later, in 1969, two smaller classroom buildings were added behind the main school.
Hayden High School played a big role in the fight for equal education for all students. This included efforts to make schools "equal" (called equalization) and to end the separation of students by race (called desegregation). The school was named after a famous educator, Della Irving Hayden. It was closed in the 1980s, after being used as a middle school for some time. In 2013, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
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A School for Equal Education
Hayden High School was more than just a building. It was a symbol of the struggle for fairness in education. For many years, schools for African-American students often received less money and had fewer resources than schools for white students. This was a time when schools were "segregated," meaning Black and white students went to separate schools.
The Fight for Fairness
The idea of "equalization" meant trying to make these separate schools truly equal in quality. People wanted the same good teachers, books, and facilities for all students. Hayden High School was part of this effort to improve schools for African-American students.
Later, the focus shifted to "desegregation." This meant ending the practice of separate schools and allowing students of all races to learn together in the same classrooms. Hayden High School was an important place during these big changes in public education.
Who Was Della Irving Hayden?
The school was named after Della Irving Hayden (1851-1924). She was a remarkable educator who believed strongly in the power of learning. Della Irving Hayden founded the Franklin Normal and Industrial Institute. This institute helped train teachers and taught students important skills for jobs. Naming the high school after her honored her dedication to education and her community.
A Historic Landmark
Hayden High School was officially recognized as a historic place on February 5, 2013. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means the building is important to the history of the United States. It helps us remember the challenges and triumphs in the journey toward equal education for everyone.
References
- "Hayden High School". Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Retrieved August 8, 2025.
