Central High School: The First High School in Detroit

During the 1800s, Detroit was the Capitol of the state of Michigan, and in 1863, the first high school in Detroit moved into the State Capitol's building, thus, giving the school a name: Capitol High School. After receiving recognition, with accreditation from the University of Michigan in 1871, Capitol High School suffered a great loss as fire destroyed the former home of the State Capitol. It wasn't until 1896, the school settled into a new home on Cass and Warren Avenue, and received a new name as well: Central High School. The building is now the home of Wayne State University's Administration Building. In years to follow, the school would see college-level curriculums, and an extended student population. The college-level curriculum was a one-year, college-level premedical curriculum, started in 1913. Later, in 1916, the first junior college curriculum organized in Michigan became a two-year program; Detroit Junior College was established at Central High School in 1917. But, the best was yet to come for Central High School.

Central High School's student population rose with ease, and by 1926 the school needed a new home. This would be the home of the CHS Trailblazers for 84 years ... and, running.

Students from all walks of Life, and areas around the globe have been celebrating their school spirit of more than 150 years; mainly classes from mid to the later 1900s have scheduled and participated in Class Reunion dinners, picnics, and other events. Many may not have made it to join in the celebrations, but being a Trailblazer myself, I am proud to have shared the history of our high school.

This year will the be the second year for the Detroit Central High School All-Class Picnic, held in the field adjacent to the building, and off the front parking lot - on Tuxedo. The first event proved to be successful, as my autographed T-shirt hung in plastic, covered with CHS graduates dating back to 'Class Of 1950s'! Can you imagine the awe of it all! I would have loved to see an autograph from an alumni of any class before 1927, or even an autograph from a CHS senior graduate of the class of 1926. Another great addition to the celebration of Central High School would be the presence of famous alumni; among the famous alumni Anita Baker, Antonio Gates, Senator Levin and Freda Payne, there are many more great ones to add to the list. More than 80% of recent alumni are entrepreneurs. The second annual Central High School All-Class Alumni Picnic will be held on Saturday, September 4, 2010, in the baseball field - off Tuxedo; scheduled for the hours of 10A - 9P. See you there!