Please Share Your Morehouse Stories

5/12/2015

The Morehouse High School class of 1969, better known as the "Last Class Of The House," is undertaking an initiative to archive the Morehouse School alumni and attendees, teachers, administrators and staff reflections of our now defunct school. This Reflections Of Morehouse High School" initiative is a concise self-interview enabling you to summarize key aspects of your life and times at MHS and what this school meant to you. Your personal stories, memories, and/or anecdotes of your time at Morehouse represent the extraordinary contribution this school has made to its attendees, the community and to Morehouse parish, and should never be forgotten.

We invite you to write comments, share memories, and stories. Click on comments below.

30 Comments

Edwin Fielder, Jr.

5/13/2015 08:15:17 am

REFLECTIONS OF MOREHOUSE
I am Edwin Fielder, Jr., a proud graduate of the “Last Class of the House,” the “Class of 69.” I grew up on Henry Street and attended Morehouse from 1957 to 1969. I then graduated from Grambling College in 1974; retired from the USMC in 2001, and the Department of Defense Education Activity in 2013.

As I reflect back upon Morehouse approaching 100 years since its inception, and after more than forty years without Morehouse, I think that Morehouse transcended mere education of black children in Bastrop and portions of Morehouse Parish. Of course there was OLHC, but Morehouse was the only game in town as far as free public education was concerned in Bastrop. In my mind, Morehouse was more of a beacon for the entire black community of Bastrop. It seems Morehouse exuded a kind of spirit of aspiration that permeated throughout the entire black community. While we all went to different churches, patronized different little community grocery stores, we all went to one public school. Morehouse was the single entity that we could call our own, and in which we took great pride. When Morehouse succeeded, we all cheered and boasted from the sense of optimism it offered. The entire black community came together around Morehouse because, during the decades prior to the 1970’s, the black community languished for a “Hero.” Morehouse was like Jessie Owens, Jackie Robinson, Jack Johnson, Joe Lewis and Mohammed Ali were to the black communities across the country during the early 20th century, and served as our local Hero. Morehouse represented the black community of Bastrop to the world. As such, to all intents and purposes, unconsciously the community was protective of Morehouse for its intrinsic optimism.
Now that I look back, in spite of being in a limited opportunity milieu, the teachers, administrators, and staff of Morehouse, as a whole, seemed to encourage, motivate, cajole, demand, persuade, exhort, and maybe even used a little (OK, a lot of) imposition and coercion, by any means necessary, to get the absolute best performance from us. It seems that they believed that, somewhere, there was something better in the future for us, whether we could appreciate it then or not. In my mind, they required and reinforced good order and discipline, appropriate and acceptable behavior toward others whether in or out of the school surroundings and an appreciation for what little we had. Subsequently, the community supported Morehouse and its teachers, each other, and protected us children from all harm. In spite of the turbulent 60’s, they all seemed to have a sense of hopefulness for us. After 46 years since Morehouse, I certainly have a greater appreciation for my Morehouse experience now. For some reason or other, I can’t recognize that kind of spirit existent these days. Maybe “The Dream” and “The Movement” had unintended consequences. Regardless, the Morehouse legacy should continue so that the progeny can and will know what Morehouse meant to their ancestors at a time of great need.

Edwin Fielder, Jr.

8/21/2015 04:47:17 am

As I reflect back up on dear old Morehouse, I have many dusty and incomplete memories, some nightmares while the majority are pleasant, with matured afterthought. My thoughts reflect back to 1957 when my mother took me to the old (new then) red brick elementary building for registration and vaccination. I will never forget Nurse Foster. I still have flashbacks owing to her shoes. I think I was more afraid of her than that vaccination---that fear made those pin pricks endurable.
Mr. Adams was the Principal, until I was 8th grade in 1965. I can not remember ever having any run-ins with him in any regard. I think I was more afraid of Ruby and Edwin, so I didn't do anything that might garner a report going home. I hoped and Prayed never to get a teacher who attended our church. I remember all my homeroom teachers too:
1st Grade-Ms. N. Duncan; 2nd Grade-Ms. Alexander; 3rd Grade-Ms. I. Duncan; 4th Grade-Ms C. Watts; 5th Grade-Ms. M. Newman; 6th Grade-Ms J. Adams; 7th Grade-Ms. N. Smith & Mr. Twymon; 8th Grade-Ms. B. Burns; 9th Grade-Mr. Pegues; 10th Grade-Mr. P. Montgomery; 11th Grade-Ms. L. Twymon; 12th Grade-Ms. D. Washington.
I reflect fondly upon the old Cotton Festival Parades of the early 1960's. My participation was in the form of marching with the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts three consecutive years--uneventful but fun just to participate. The distance from the school to the old fair grounds wasn't quite what it had been cracked up to be either. I think back then we were just a lot tougher by default.
As I reflect back up on dear old Morehouse, I have many dusty and incomplete memories, some nightmares while the majority are pleasant, with matured afterthought. My thoughts reflect back to 1957 when my mother took me to the old (new then) red brick elementary building for registration and vaccination. I will never forget Nurse Foster. I still have flashbacks owing to her shoes. I think I was more afraid of her than that vaccination---that fear made those pin pricks endurable.
Mr. Adams was the Principal, until I was 8th grade in 1965. I can not remember ever having any run-ins with him in any regard. I think I was more afraid of Ruby and Edwin, so I didn't do anything that might garner a report going home. I hoped and Prayed never to get a teacher who attended our church. I remember all my homeroom teachers too:
1st Grade-Ms. N. Duncan; 2nd Grade-Ms. Alexander; 3rd Grade-Ms. I. Duncan; 4th Grade-Ms C. Watts; 5th Grade-Ms. M. Newman; 6th Grade-Ms J. Adams; 7th Grade-Ms. N. Smith & Mr. Twymon; 8th Grade-Ms. B. Burns; 9th Grade-Mr. Pegues; 10th Grade-Mr. P. Montgomery; 11th Grade-Ms. L. Twymon; 12th Grade-Ms. D. Washington.
I reflect fondly upon the old Cotton Festival Parades of the early 1960's. My participation was in the form of marching with the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts three consecutive years--uneventful but fun just to participate. The distance from the school to the old fair grounds wasn't quite what it had been cracked up to be either. I think back then we were just a lot tougher by default.
May be more later as recall becomes clearer.

felton williams

9/30/2016 04:04:15 pm

Mr.edwin Fielder jr I am writing to you in hope that you can recall felton Williams who live on Pruitt st he is trying to locate betty lou fudge

Vera Burns

9/28/2015 11:13:27 pm

Morehouse was an educational institution that provided so much more than teaching reading, writing and math for the students.
I am so thankful that under the leadership and direction of the former seven principals of Morehouse School that they hired the BEST Teachers.
The Morehouse teachers were all intelligent, gifted and talented. The teachers at Morehouse were more than instructors of their subject matter. They were also our counselors, mentors and for some students substitute parents. My Great Teachers were:
1st grade-Mrs. Nettie Duncan, 2nd grade-Mrs. Eva D. Alexander, 3rd grade-Mrs. Lucinda A. Cain, 4th grade-Mrs. Olar Moore, 5th grade-Mrs.Hannah Henry-Jones, 6th grade-Mrs. Tivis Hunter, 7th & 8th grades-Mrs. Naomi Smith, Mr. Alfred Twymon, Mr. Willie Fitch, Mr. Elton Dunn, Mrs. Billye Joyce Burns and Ms. Iva Carmack.
High School-Mrs. Dorothy Washington, Mr. James Johnson, Mr. Johnnie Pegues, Ms. Barbara Mansfield, Mrs. Mariah Cain, Mrs. Lizzie Smith, Mrs. Doris Burks, Mr. Milton Jackson, Ms. Virginia Honeycutt, Mrs. Evelyn Rayford, Mr. William Alexander, Mr. Clarence Hawkins, Mrs. Mattie DeBose, Mr. Payne Montgomery, Mr. Alfred Dawson, Ms. Jennie Carter, Mr. Dennis Montgomery, Mrs. Lubertha Twymon, Mrs. Della Haynes(Music), Ms. Arthurlean Johnson(Music) and Ms. GRACE A. REESE(Music and my Piano Teacher) .
Another one of my teachers, Mrs. Lillian D. Burns Thompson, my mother who was also a Morehouse graduate(Class of 1941). She was a teacher at Morehouse from 1947-1969.
I enjoyed my years in High School: Being Miss Freshman 1965, Performing in the High School Choir, Participating in the Music division of the LIALO Competitions in Choir and Piano.
It was during my high school years I decided to become a Music Teacher. I am a retired Music Teacher, I taught Music for 40 years.
To My GREAT Teachers at MOREHOUSE, Thank You!
Vera Burns (Class of 1969) "Last Class in the House"

Linda Carol

5/11/2016 12:10:04 am

Hey Vera, do you remember the words to our class song? I think I could get through it. I know it was "Somewhere Morehouse". I didn't realize until years later that Ms. Reese used the theme from Dr. Zhivago to write it. It was beautiful and so meaningful!

Shirley A. Brown

10/5/2015 01:08:23 pm

I am Shirley Brown Sherman. I attended Morehouse all twelve years and graduated in May 1969. Morehouse prepared me for my lifelong occupation as a Cook at LeGrand Nursing Home for the past twenty seven (27) years. For some reason, my most significant memory of attending Morehouse was the simple joy of leaning. I never found any of my classes boring. If I had to give a reason, I would probably say it was the teachers. I think they were very good at making sure we learned. My favorite teachers were Mrs. DeBose, because I learned about cooking, and Mrs. Twymon, because she set an elegant example that I wanted to emulate.
Even though I didn't realize it at that time, I would hate to think what life would have been like if Morehouse hadn't been there for me. Morehouse played a very important part in me becoming the person I am today and I want to take this opportunity to say "Thanks." Congratulations and Good Luck on 100 Years Recognition.

Ramona Kay Grant

10/5/2015 01:32:55 pm

I am Ramona K. Grant Robinson. I came to Morehouse High School in the 10th grade and graduated in the Class of 1969. I remember being a quiet and shy student in school, but as I got to know my high school classmates, I found it easy to make friends and I came out a little more. I will never forget my Senior year because I had so much fun with my classmates on our Senior Trip. Maybe I'd better not give too may details in writing. Grand kids might read this one day.
The more I got engaged, the more I enjoyed all my classes and teachers. I really enjoyed the different activities, especially the annual May Day Festivals.
The teacher that I remember most of all is Mrs. Evelyn Hayford because she taught sewing. As a result of being in her class I developed a passion for sewing. I have been Blessed to have made a career as a Seamstress for the past forty-five (45) years. I have enjoyed and am proud of having done sewing for different organizations, local and long distance. I am proud of having done sewing for many weddings and proms. I think because of what I gained from attending Morehouse High School, I have been Blessed to be a Blessing to so many others. I am extremely proud of this fact. Thank You Dear Morehouse.

Annie Calvin-Fitch

10/5/2015 06:16:39 pm

I am Annie Calvin-Fitch, I attended Morehouse from 1965-1967, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades. I loved the school at that very young age. I was very runty and shy, and some may say I'm still a little shy today to a certain degree. My memories of years at MHS are fun ones. I can still remember my teachers. 1st grade-Ms Garner, 2nd grade Ms Armstrong, and 3rd grade Ms Duncan. I remember crying in 2nd grade because I wanted to be in Mrs Ora Evans class. My classes were in the long building on the Martin Luther King side, it was called South Haggety then I think. The side where the stadium is.The Middle classes were in the two white wooden buildings with the plank board floors, the cafeteria was the next building over. The high-school students were on the front facing Madison near the auditorium. Pep rallies were a fun time for us all, we had plenty of school spirit and even though I wasn't allowed to leave campus, I remember the older students going to Mrs Lizzie's or Mr Alfred store for snacks and that famous good back then dill pickle in that small brown paper bag. May Day was a grand time. May 1 the school had a May-Day celebration wrapping the may pole. Lunches were always the best because they were made from scratch.When I was promoted to 4th grade we moved and I had to attend Henry V. Adams for 4th and 5th grades. The teachers were nice, but it just wasn't that same MHS feeling, something about your roots makes it more special. I can still remember the snow cones Mr Strickland use to sell and just being a part of such a close family was an honor, even it it was for a short period of time. I'm always telling my daughter about my time at Morehouse. I can proudly say I am Morehouse and I am truly blessed to have been a part of such great history.Long live Morehouse high history and the memories of the good old days there.

Lois Thomas

11/6/2015 12:51:19 am

Does anyone remember back in 1965 a 1st grade teacher name Ms.Garner. I love that lady. She said one you will be able to go to college. And I did. 1981 graduate of Grambling State University. Even thou I grew up in poverty.

Ed Fielder

3/10/2016 01:33:48 pm

Thank you for sharing your personal experiences. This is exactly what we hoped this site would do, highlight how MPTS/MHS contributed to uplifting the Black community and preserve these testimonials for future generations who will/may never have the same experiences of community, inspiration, encouragment and compassion.
Thank you

Pearlie Brandon-Carthon

11/18/2015 12:52:39 pm

I attended Morehouse High School graduated with the Last Class of the House in 1969.
So many Great memories, the Best Teachers who were determine to prepare us for the future. Thank God for them!

Celebrating 100 Years!

Ed Fielder

3/10/2016 01:25:30 pm

Thank you for sharing your sentiments.

Marsha Steptoe Culler

3/8/2016 10:48:17 am

I am one of the grand daughter's of Rexford G. Steptoe. Thanks for creating this site, as it gives me a place to learn about my history. I proudly shared it with my siblings and my granddad's great grandchildren. My late uncle, one of this sons was an educator and principal of two prominent DC schools. Most of us live in Washington, D.C. I hope to visit the historic site soon. Take care and God bless.

Ed Fielder

3/10/2016 01:22:13 pm

Thank you for reaching out to us. Would you mind establishing contact at this email address, edfielder51@yahoo.com, to continue developing this connection?
Thank you in advance

Ireatha Slater Harris

3/9/2016 06:16:17 pm

I loved Morehouse, I was very quiet and shy but I made mny friends and have many memories! I remember the fantastic band, Mr. Stricklanad, and those drum majors that always put on a fantastic show at half time. The football team was also great, along with all the sports teams! I remember the great spirit of winning and being a part of a winning tradition, it was great to be a part of such a tradition! One of my fondest memories is when the school took a bus load of kids to Southern University. I had never been out of Bastrop and I was so excited,it was a great educational experience as well as fun!! I will never forget that experience! I willl always regret I did not graduate from Morehouse because like so many others I had look forward to marching in that line, going upon that stage to receive my diploma and have someone shouting in my behalf, like so many others before me! I honestly remember parents and grandparents shouting at those baccalaureate services, I could not imagine or forsee the writing on the wall, INTERGRATION!! I went to Bastrop High School in the 11th grade. It was so different, the culture shock was devastating to me. I think it changed so many of our lives, we were thrown onto a path that so many of us were just not ready for, and I never adjusted. I did the work and I graduated but there is a big difference between going to school and loving school! I didnt wakeup everyday with excitement and anticipation. I am thankful to Morehouse and all the teachers and faculty that were dedicated, challenged and compassionate to give of their time and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of all of those little brown, black and yellow children, regardless of the circumstances or conditions. Morehouse will always have a special place in my heart!! HAPPY 100th YEAR BIRTHDAY MOREHOUSE and may the legacy you began live on in each of us as WE BE THE ONE TO HELP ONE!

Ed Fielder

3/10/2016 01:19:44 pm

Thank you for your contribution to the Morehouse Legacy.

Ora Evans

3/25/2016 09:04:11 pm

Please notice a change in date for the Rodeo. It will be held on July 3rd at the MAC Center - Moeller Drive 2:00pm - 6:00pm

Ora Evans

3/25/2016 09:17:20 pm

25 March 2016
Dear Morehouse Family and Friends:
Holding true to the intent for which the Morehouse School Reunion was originated more than forty (40) years ago, “To Remember and Relive the Morehouse Training/High School Legacy,” this is to invite you to our Twelfth (12th) School Reunion. This Reunion is significant in several ways, but most importantly, it is the 100th Year of the inception of Morehouse Parish Training School, 1916-2016. Regrettably, they aren’t making any more Morehouse grads and the reunion opportunities are diminishing. This Centennial Year Reunion will consist of a couple of new offerings in addition to our traditional fare of events and activities.
In keeping with the “Morehouse Legacy, A Past To Cherish, A History To Preserve,” we have added a “Reflections Of Morehouse” page to the Morehouse High School website, www.morehousehigh.weebly.com, to capture your memories and stories of your time at Morehouse and what Morehouse has meant to you. The intent is to preserve as much of the fragile Morehouse history as possible for future generations.
Additionally, we are planning a parade at 10:00am to 12:00pm on Saturday morning, July 02, 2016, reminiscent of the old Cotton Festival Parades and Homecoming Parades of the early 1960’s to get the community to come out and get involved in the old Morehouse Spirit. The theme for this parade will be, “Blue and Gold Forever!” We would like to have each Class to decorate a float or parade car reflecting their time period.
Immediately following the parade, we will have an area of the old Morehouse gym set aside for a “Memorabilia Show and Tell” provide an opportunity for the community to see artifacts and memorabilia, and hear stories from Morehouse attendees who actually lived the Morehouse experience. If you have any scrapbooks, memory books, pictures, newspaper articles, awards, certificates, etc., any artifacts or memorabilia of Morehouse, please bring with you.
Please consider attending this, our 12th Reunion and Centennial Year of the inception of Morehouse Training/High School. The enclosed Registration Form is provided for your information and registration. Please contact our committee at the above contact numbers for any further guidance.
I wholeheartedly look forward to welcoming you home and to our twelfth Morehouse Reunion. We want to make this Centennial Year Reunion as meaningful as the first.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE RODEO HAS BEEN CHANGE TO JULY 3RD AT THE MAC CENTER - MOEHLLER DRIVE FROM 2 PM TO 6 PM.

Sincerely,

Ora F. Evans
Morehouse Reunion Committee Chairperson

Ora Virginia Fudge Evans

3/25/2016 11:29:42 pm

I attended Morehouse Training Morehouse High School from 1949-1955 those were some of the best days of my life. I met many friends coming from Collinston, Oak Ridge, Bonita, Mer Rouge and other places. I had great teachers in the school one of my favorite math teachers was Dr. William Alexander he was a very good geometry teacher. We would travel to Southern University to compete with other schools. We had to ride the bus to school from Beekman to Bastrop everyday. We had to wrap the Maypole during the spring. We were taught sewing and cooking at school which I never did finish the dress i started sewing. Another one of my favorite teachers was Mr. F.A. Reese who taught me Math. I was also in the choir taught by Mrs. Hawthorne. I always thought Mrs. Medlock and Mr. Twymon was two of the best dressed teachers in the school. I finished high school in 1955 and went to Grambling State University and came back to start teaching in 1959. I taught second grade for 20 years and many of my students are preachers today and I wonder why. Mrs. Peggy Watts and I worked with the band and majorettes for many years along with Mr. Strickland. They were the best in the state of Louisiana. We also coached the basketball team and won many games. Those were some of the best teaching days of my life. I still see many of my students today and still love them like I did when I was teaching them. The late Mr. Henry V. Adams was one of the best principals I ever worked with in all of my 41 years in the school system. School was fun at that time and children were learning and very smart. In 1969 was the end of the time I enjoyed teaching. Just wanted to share all the many wonderful memories I had at Morehouse High School.

Shirley Davis Netterville

4/25/2018 05:39:06 am

Mrs. Evans, I am a former student of Morehouse from early 1960. My family relocated to Detroit Michigan. I had a wonderful teacher name Miss Peggy A. Watts. For many years I have wanted to get in contact with her. I pray that you are my connection to her. Please help me find her. God bless you.

Linda Carol Jackson Lewis

4/27/2016 01:10:47 am

Oh Morehouse! Dear Morehouse! Hello fellow Tigers! My name is Linda Carol Jackson. I am a member of the "The Last Class of Morehouse High School, class of 1969. I also hold the distinction of being the last Miss Morehouse! When I think of my life at Morehouse, I am immediately overcome with happiness. It began in 1957 when I was a first grader with Mrs. Washington who was the sweetest person I had ever met. That was the beginning of being taught by some of the greatest educators in the world: Ms. McMillian, Ms. Burk, Ms. Loretta Johnson, Ms. Hannah Henry, Ms. Wright (Hawkins). These teachers set the stage for my educational and personal life. They were not only teachers but they were parents and counselors as well. I can't tell you how many times my lunch money was paid by one of them or for Christmas I was given a separate gift of clothing or money. This did not stop in elementary school. In high school we were afforded the opportunity to not only thrive academically and athletically, we were also exposed socially. They got us ready! Even when the school closed and students were sent to Bastrop High, their hearts weren't in it but their minds were ready.

At Morehouse, we learned and we played. I remember solving equations with Ms. Brit Lee, writing essays with Ms. Twymon, being totally confused in Biology class, having fun in PE class and like Ms. Evans, never finishing that dress in homemaking! Even lunchtime was fun! Hanging out with your friends and sometimes walking to the store or to Jakes Cafe for a hamburger. I loved football season with the pep rallies and homecoming activities like dances when my brother, Earl Duke, was the entertainer. The basketball games and tournaments and even the baseball games when we walked to Dotson Park during the last period of the day.

I remember the bittersweet days of our senior year knowing that these wonderful times were coming to an end. No more hearing the band rehearse as you walked by the new stadium; no more songs from Ms.Reese and the choir; no more school plays or just plain old homeroom where you began your day with the same individuals for four years! These times and people will never be forgotten.

Little did we know how much of an influence Morehouse would have on us. When I walked off that stage, I knew what I wanted to be. I wanted to be a teacher just like the ones I had at Morehouse! After attending Southern University, that's exactly what I did. I taught Math like Ms.Washington, English like Ms. Twymon and sponsored student activities. I taught my students about school pride and respect. I taught my children the same.

Thank you so much Edwin and Ms. Evans for this opportunity to share the love and memories with my fellow Tigers. I look forward to every bi-annual gathering. I am ultra excited about this year! Looking forward to seeing you all, especially the Class of '69!

Lula Henderson-Hancock

7/23/2016 09:31:55 pm

That is beautifully written, I too enjoy my years at Morehouse, there were many, many memorable days there, I am class of '65.

Augustine Jackson Jordan

5/10/2016 01:25:51 am

I am Augustine Jackson Jordan and I attended Morehouse Training School from 1960-1969. In the fall of 1969 I started the 10th grade at Bastrop High School and it was not the same. I attended St. Mary C.M.E. Church on West Madison right across the street from Mr. Alford's store. I often think of those years at Morehouse which were some of the best of my life. Anybody remember Charles Peoples? I remember at Morehouse we would purchase those Chili Dogs that were delicious. Great memories.

Linda Carol Jackson Lewis

5/11/2016 12:18:40 am

Yes, Augustine, I remember Charles People. He was in our class (1969). He and Ladell Gillette drowned at an outing right after we graduated from high school. He was such a fun loving boy and outstanding athlete.

Johnnie Dorsey Moses

6/1/2016 06:23:41 pm

My name is Johnnie Dorsey Moses, and I am a 1969 graduate of Morehouse High School. This class is affectionately known as the
"The Last Class of the House."

I am grateful for the educational foundation I received at dear Morehouse. Being taught by devoted caring teachers who were concerned about both my educational and social development was truly a blessing.

In the seventh grade, I recall Mr. Twymon using the analogy of a big bear to describe the challenges we would encounter in life. He always stressed the importance of being prepared in order to be successful in this competitive society.

I have fond memories of us laughing and talking as we happily walked to and from school. I recall attending football games on Friday nights and dancing to the music of the awesome marching band. As I reminisce, I sometimes find myself doing dance moves to some of those sixties tunes. Since history was my favorite subject in high school, I am grateful that I was selected to represent our school in the literary rallies in Monroe, and on the state level at Southern University in my junior year.

I will always remember my graduation, we marched in and out of the auditorium with such grace and precision concentrating on each step ro demonstrate the unity of the 'Class of 1969'.

After graduating from college, I returned to Bastrop and dedicated thirty-eight years to educating and helping to mold the lives of children in Morehouse Parish.

Ethel Carolyn Fielder

6/28/2016 10:06:57 am

As we approach the centennial celebration of Morehouse High School I am glad to offer my reflections.

When I think of Morehouse High School, I think of being cheated out of a perfect ending to a fantastic/funtastic education and experience. You see, at the end of the school year of 1969, I too, became a member of the last class of the house, because at the end of my 7th grade year, Morehouse no longer existed except in my heart and mind.

My name is Ethel Carolyn Fielder. I loved Morehouse from first grade to the end of 7th grade. It was at Morehouse and the the teachers that taught me that I enjoyed learning new and different things. I enjoyed reading, writing, arithmetic, science and history/geography. It is because of the foundation of Morehouse I can go anywhere I want to and be anyone I want to be if I put my mind to it and put forth much effort. Morehouse, dear old Morehouse, how I love thee, dear old Morehouse.

I recall Mrs. Merlene Jones, first grade, teaching me how to read (I love reading). Mrs. Dorothy Alexander, second grade, letting me read a research paper I wrote on citizenship that she let me read to another second grade class. Mrs. Idell Warren,third grade, help me understand math and science through hands on demonstrations. She also cast me as the lead role in the operatte. I was the fairy god mother and and she made my costume. She also sparked my interest in acting and my first thought of being a teacher. In the fourth grade, Mrs. McKay increased my interest in travel through geography lessons. Mrs. Burns,fifth grade, taught a new way of doing arithmetic(new math), and allowing me to be a student helper. Mrs. Dickerson, sixth grade, taught me how to diagram sentences and love it.

I then looked forward to seventh grade, changing classes and meeting new teachers. Therefore, hats off to Mr. Cyrus, my homeroom/history teacher. Ms. Loche, (Mrs. Tappin now), for English/literature. I remember the scrapbook we did as a class project. Mrs. E. Smith for science. In this class learning about clouds and weather was fun. Mrs. Strickland for reading and Mrs. Washington for P.E. I probably didn't like 7th grade math, because I can't remember who taught it (smile).

At Morehouse, I remember being a Jr. Majorette, and was later desiring to be member of the famed Morehouse High Tiger Marching Band under the direction of Mr.Strickland. I remember the football games, (my brother played and my other brother was the statistician) and my mother learning about football because her son played. It was a family affair. I remember doing the Highland Fling and wrapping the Maypole for the May Day festivities. I remember buying the "best" snow cones from Mr. Strickland during recess. I remember having recess.

An education at Morehouse prepared you for the times ahead because the teachers cared about you and your future. An education from Morehouse High School prepared you to be a member of society and not a victim of society.

Morehouse, dear old Morehouse, how I love thee, dear old Morehouse.

Ethel Carolyn Fielder
1962-1969

Thelma Smith Perkins link

7/14/2016 11:49:27 am

Morehouse Parish Training School afforded me the beginning of my development educationally, socially and physically.
The teachers at Morehouse believed in working together to strengthen their students' abilities; while, at the same time, attending to the interests and needs of each individual student.
I am overjoyed to celebrate the important role of teachers who exerted a profound influence in my life. These developments were one-of-a-kind types of events for me, a fusion of cultural, musical, aesthetic and academic experiences which stimulated my love of learning and intellectual curiosity.
Though meager in many resources, these teachers instilled in me values of appreciation, values of intellectual spirit and values of integrity.
The following teachers are profoundly remembered: Ms. Mariah Cain, Ms.Marie Farnsworth, Mrs. Chanel, Mr. F.A. Reese, Mrs. A.B. Penny, Mr. James Smith [my uncle who also became a Morehouse Principal], Mr. A.H. Jackson (my Principal), Mrs. Sylvia Howard, Ms. Willa Powe, and Mrs. Willie Howard.
As a member of the Morehouse High Class of 1943, I thank you for this opportunity to correspond about this historic occasion.

Ruby Louise Jackson Fielder link

7/14/2016 12:42:55 pm

I am proud of this opportunity to share my reflections of Morehouse Parish Training School. I can't remember the year I started first grade, but I am a member of the Class of 1943. I cannot express how much gratitude I feel now for the landowners who gave their land for the establishment of this great institution, Morehouse Parish Training School, that has fostered and unified so many in the Black community until 1969. Even at that time, they had the foresight to put into place provisions that would ensure their grant would forever serve the needs of the Black community. I only wish I could remember all their names and backgrounds now.
During my years of school, one of my first memories was having to walk from the old Carbon Plant Road to school on the corner of Hwy #165 and old Haggerty Street, about two and a half miles (2.5) one way for a first grader. Needless to say, I slept in between roundtrips. I guess all that exercise must have made me stronger because I didn't repeat any other grades.
The other fond memory of Morehouse was the two (2) white school buildings, one designated for elementary and the other for secondary classes. I can still recall my elementary teachers: Mrs. N.B. Duncan, Mrs. H.C. Steptoe, Mrs. Willie Smith, Mrs. Conway and Mrs. Lucille Griffin. In the second building, I remember Mr. F.A. Reese, Mrs. Mariah Chatman, Ms. L.M. Chanel, Mrs. W.M. Scott, Mrs.Penny who taught home living and Ms. Fonsworth who taught English/Literature (I remember I didn't care much for Literature), and Mr. Chester Wright, who taught woodwork/shop to the boys. I also recall a dormitory-like building on the campus that was used to house some of the female students. I know some students who lived a long distance from the school found boarding in family homes nearby if their parents could afford it.
I attended Morehouse Parish Training School until the 11th grade. However, due to a tragic accident, a fire in the school, many of our classes were held in the neighborhood churches. St. Mary C.M.E. and St. John M.B.C. served as the backup campuses for us to continue our education. As such, the Class of 1943 graduated in St. John.
I am so grateful and Thankful for my educational experience and I am exceptionally proud that this great institution was here for my children to attend and experience the same kind of unity, love, care and concern of the entire faculty. This institution fulfilled more than the educational needs of the Black community. It was all that we had, but it prepared us to survive our world, which had no possibilities, until 1969.

Julia Ann Robinson

7/21/2016 05:59:21 am

I am happy to be apart of the Legacy from which Morehouse High helped me to celebrate 50year with classmates and meet some of
Pioneers that made it possible 1916-2016.
Reflections of 4-H Club, Typing with Ms..Lizzie Smith, working in the Office with Ms.Barbara Mansfield getting clerical skills and Mr . William Alexander who taught me to prepare income tax. My experience with Drama helped me accomplish a lot. Thank you for
Preparing us for this big World .You groomed us well.

Hail To Our Mighty Tigers

Blue and Gold for Ever.''

Geraldine Blackmon link

7/8/2023 11:39:06 pm

I have some bitter sweet memories at Morehouse. As a 1st grader my teacher, Ms Karan Ann King, RIP. My class of 1964.
Ms Rayford, Mr Alexander, Mrs. Washington, were awesome teachers and I learned from them.

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