About Our School

The History of Pershing Elementary

Construction of this building was completed in 1884. No records are available as to costs or contractors. Newspaper articles indicate this building cost approximately $10,000. It served as an elementary and high school from 1884 to 1891. After the new high school was constructed in 1891, Pershing served as an elementary school (grades 1-8) until 1927. Then it housed grades 1-6 until 1950. The school was originally located on 6th Street, but was demolished after the new school was constructed and occupied in 1950.

From April 1950 issues of the LEXINGTON CLIPPER newspaper:
The building was dedicated Sunday, April 16, 1950, at the Junior High Auditorium along with Bryan Elementary & Morton Elementary. Elbert Smith, School Board President, spoke at the dedication. He told the crowd that "because the flag of the United States was flying on flag poles in school yards, public buildings, and other places in our country, they are privileged to attend schools, churches, be what they want, and do what they want." He also said, " It is because of men like General John J. Pershing for whom their school is named, that they can enjoy these privileges." He admonished them to learn all they can of his life and character for he is one of the great men in history.

From school files:

1950
The new building at 11th & Tyler had six classrooms, a multi-purpose room with dressing rooms and a kitchen, health room, office and teachers' room, book room, storage room, toilet facilities, and kindergarten with a private entrance.  Estimated student capacity was 230 students. Total cost: $172,095.

1952
Four classrooms, a project room and toilet facilities were added to accommodate up to 120 more students. Total cost: $49,147.19.

1956
Three more classroom and a project room we added to accommodate up to 90 additional students. Total cost: $42,525.

1984
One classroom was converted into an elementary school library. Estimated student capacity of this building was then 410 students.

1995
A modular was added at the north end of the current building. It originally housed sixth graders, but now is used for an all-day kindergarten class.

1998
Pershing became a K-5 school when the sixth grade moved to the Middle School.

This Page was last update: Monday, April 26, 2004 at 3:03:02 PM
This page was originally posted: 4/13/04; 10:32:34 AM.
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