HISTORICAL MARKER DEDICATED FOR PICKARD HIGH SCHOOL

  

The lasting legacy of Pickard High School in Brenham was honored today (Friday) at a dedication ceremony for a new Texas Historical Marker.

Community members and former students gathered at 205 Kerr Street to commemorate the marker, telling the story of one of the oldest African American schools in Texas and highlighting the school’s role in the Camptown community.

Natearah Johnson Austin, a descendant of two generations of Pickard High School alumni and a member of the A.R. Pickard High School Reunion Association, said the occasion serves to acknowledge the struggles and triumphs of those who came generations before.

First established in 1866, the school came underneath the Brenham public school system in 1875.  It was originally known as the Camptown School and later the East End School, but was renamed years later in honor of longtime principal A.R. Pickard.  The campus consisted of the main building that has since been torn down, an agricultural building, a home economics building and a gymnasium.

Loretta Johnson, Natearah’s mother and the founder of the Reunion Association, said this recognition from the Texas Historical Commission celebrates the impact the school has had and carries on the school’s history.

Brenham ISD Superintendent Clay Gillentine said Pickard High School’s influence on Brenham ISD has been profound.

Following remarks from elected officials and others affiliated with the school, as well as those involved in the effort to obtain the historical marker, the marker was officially unveiled.  Guests were then invited to enjoy fellowship and refreshments.