(Media release from the Georgia Archives):
The Georgia Archives and the Digital Library of Georgia are proud to present the Historic Schools Photograph Collection – an invaluable compilation of approximately 1,800 images captured by the Georgia Department of Education in the 1950s. This collection offers a fascinating look into the state’s primary and secondary public schools, both white and African American, scheduled for demolition during a transformative period in Georgia’s educational history.
Responding to a 1947 survey that highlighted an excess of small, poorly built schools, the Georgia Department of Education initiated a comprehensive building program in the 1950s. The survey underscored deplorable conditions, particularly in African American schools, prompting consolidation, construction of new buildings, and the demolition of small or substandard schools. Between 1942 and 1956, the total number of schools in Georgia decreased from 3,205 to 2,480.
The Historic Schools Photograph Collection captures the essence of this era, showcasing the architectural and educational legacy of schools slated for demolition. This collaborative effort aims to make these historical images accessible to the public, shedding light on the evolution of education in Georgia.
The collection is available for exploration here or by visiting https://dlg.usg.edu/ and searching under “Collections” for “Historic Schools”.
