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Margaret Murray Washington School facts for kids

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Margaret Murray Washington School
Margaret Murray Washington School 2013.JPG
Margaret Murray Washington School in 2013
Margaret Murray Washington School is located in Washington, D.C.
Margaret Murray Washington School
Location in Washington, D.C.
Location 27 O St., NW
Washington, D.C.
Built 1912
Architect Snowden Ashford
MPS Public School Buildings of Washington, DC MPS
NRHP reference No. 11000843
Added to NRHP November 22, 2011

The Margaret Murray Washington School, also known as the M.M. Washington Career High School, is a historic building. It is located in the Truxton Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C.. This important building was added to the District of Columbia Inventory of Historic Sites and the National Register of Historic Places in 2011.

A Look at the School's Past

The main part of the school building first opened its doors in 1912. It was originally called the O Street Vocational School. The building was designed by Snowden Ashford, who was the main architect for Washington, D.C. at the time.

How the School Got Its Name

In 1926, the school was renamed to honor Margaret Murray Washington. She was the wife of Booker T. Washington, a famous educator. Margaret Murray Washington was a strong leader who worked for equal rights and helped many people.

Building Changes Over Time

The school building grew over the years. New parts were added in 1928 and 1938. These additions were designed by architects Albert Harris and Albert Cassell. Later, in 1971, a gymnasium was built, giving students a place for sports and activities.

What Students Learned There

The school offered special classes to help students learn useful skills. Boys learned "manual training," which meant practical skills like working with tools. Girls learned "domestic science and art," which included skills for managing a home and creative arts. During World War II, nursing classes were added. After the war, the nursing program became officially recognized. The school taught both high school students and younger students from nearby elementary schools.

What Happened to the Building

In 2008, the Margaret Murray Washington School was one of many schools that closed. This happened because of budget cuts in the city. A few years later, in 2012, work began to change the old school building. It was turned into apartments for senior citizens. This new housing, called the House of Lebanon, opened in 2013 and has 82 apartments.

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