William Penn High School (North Carolina) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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William Penn High School
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![]() Seen from the street
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Location | Washington Dr., High Point, North Carolina |
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Area | 6.5 acres (2.6 ha) |
Built | 1910 | -1911, 1929-1930
Architectural style | Colonial Revival |
NRHP reference No. | 78001959 |
Added to NRHP | November 16, 1978 |
William Penn High School is a historic school building in High Point, North Carolina. It was also known as the High Point Normal & Industrial Institute. This school was very important because it served African-American students.
The main school building was built between 1910 and 1911. It was later made larger and updated in 1929 and 1930. Today, the building is home to the Penn-Griffin School for the Arts. This is a special school for students who want to focus on art.
A Look at the School Building
The main school building has two stories and 12 classrooms. It was built in a style called Colonial Revival. This means it looks like older American buildings. It has a special front entrance that sticks out a bit.
There were also two other buildings on the school property. These were built around 1910. One was a wooden building with a metal roof. The other was a brick building with a low roof.
The School's History
The High Point Normal & Industrial Institute was started in 1891. It was founded by a religious group called the Quakers. They believed in education for everyone.
The school served the community for many years. It closed its doors in 1968. However, the building found a new purpose. It reopened in 2003 as the Penn-Griffin School for the Arts. This is a magnet school, which means it has a special focus.
The school building was recognized for its history in 1978. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes important places across the United States.
Famous People Who Attended
Many talented people went to William Penn High School. Here are two well-known alumni:
- John Coltrane — He was a famous jazz saxophonist and composer.
- Gwendolyn Ann Magee — She was an African American fiber artist. She created amazing art using fabric.