Former Site of Fred Douglass - G.W. Jackson School
Corsicana, Navarro County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Corsicana built its first public school for blacks on this site in 1881. The early formal name, commemorating ethnic leader Frederick Douglass (1817-95), was changed in 1925 to honor the first principal, G.W. Jackson (1854-1940). A Booker T. Washington disciple, Jackson introduced industrial education and other progressive ideas. The school became famous for its music department and football championships, and had intensely loyal alumni. In 1970, integration ended its career. Its buildings were razed in 1974 and this park was created in 1976. (1977)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Corsicana opened its first public school for Black children on this site in 1881, first naming it for the great abolitionist Frederick Douglass. In 1925 it was renamed to honor G.W. Jackson, its first principal and a follower of Booker T. Washington, who brought industrial education and a celebrated music program. Beloved by its alumni until integration closed it in 1970, the school was razed in 1974 and this park raised in its place.
Why it matters
It traces the whole arc of segregated Black education in America — pride, achievement, and fierce loyalty under Jim Crow, then the bittersweet end of these institutions when integration arrived.
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Related people
- · Frederick Douglass
- · G.W. Jackson
- · Booker T. Washington
Themes & tags
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