In February, Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) is celebrating Black History in MSCS: A Century of Progress. The theme carries special significance. In 1926 – 100 years ago — the first Negro History Week was observed, laying the foundation for what is now celebrated nationwide as Black History Month. The centennial milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on MSCS’ history.
The Foundation
Within MSCS, an integral part of that progress exists on North Manassas Street. Established in 1899, Manassas High School became the first accredited four-year institution for Black students in Shelby County.
The school began in a modest two-room frame building under the leadership of its first principal, William H. Foote. In 1902, two rooms were added. Each year, a new grade level followed, steadily building toward a full high school program. In 1924, Manassas celebrated its first graduating class of 14 students — a historic milestone that solidified its place as a pioneering institution for African-American education in Memphis.
Today, history greets visitors at the entrance. Photographs of the original campus line the entryway, a visual tribute to the school’s beginnings. “We put this out so the kids will be able to see the history,” said Principal Eric Cooper.
For students, that history is personal. Ke'Marion, a Manassas student said, “The history of Manassas has impacted me as a student because it lets me know that I can accomplish big and great things from the people who have graduated from Manassas.” His classmate Christie echoed that pride: “It makes me feel good because there aren't many schools with our history in Memphis.” Together, these students embody the past, present, and future of MSCS. They are living proof that legacy inspires leadership.
Living History
At the heart of the school sits a very special room: the Manassas Alumni Room. In an increasingly digital era, preserving physical records of history remains vital.
Upon entering Manassas’ museum, you’ll find a sign-in book dating back to 2008 visits. The walls display decades of historical memorabilia; such as newspaper clippings, championship trophies, cheerleader outfits, and artifacts that chronicle the school’s journey. An active alumni association preserves these items, ensuring that each generation can connect with those who came before them.
Trailblazers
Now 127 years strong, Manassas High School has produced an extraordinary lineage of leaders whose impact extends far beyond Memphis.
Velma Lois Jones made history as the first woman elected president of the Memphis branch of the NAACP. A passionate educator, she taught in legacy Memphis City Schools and became the first Black classroom teacher to serve as president of the Tennessee Education Association. To learn more about Jones’ story, click here.
Houston Antwine was inducted into the New England Patriots Hall of Fame in 2015. He played in 142 games and led the Patriots in sacks for three consecutive seasons from 1967 until 1969. To learn more about Antwine’s sports achievements, click here.
Ernest Withers was a renowned photojournalist during the Civil Rights Movement. Withers, famously, was the only person to document the Emmett Till trial in its entirety, and photographed the “I Am A Man” sanitation workers strike in Memphis. Posthumously, it was discovered he was an FBI informant. To learn more about Withers’ life, click here.
Jones, Antwine and Withers are just some of Manassas’ remarkable trailblazers who left an everlasting footprint in history. Their stories are an indication of the excellence that MSCS cultivates within its classrooms.
Looking Toward the Future
Today, Manassas High School offers more than 50 courses and a wide range of extracurricular activities, continuing its legacy of educational merit. Students are able to reflect on their school’s history through a remarkable, updated museum that symbolizes resistance in the face of adversity.
The school’s motto, “We will never let Manassas fall,” reflects a shared commitment among educators, students, and alumni alike. From a two-room building in 1899 to a historic institution shaping tomorrow’s leaders, Manassas High School remains a powerful symbol of Black history in MSCS.
If you have a story about a MSCS student, teacher, or school to highlight, please email us at communications@scsk12.org. Include the school name, story details, and an SCSK12.ORG email for follow-up.