Coalton High School

The History of Coalton High School

Coalton (population 307) is located in south-central Illinois in the northeast portion of Montgomery County. The main roadway leading to and from Coalton is Illinois Route 16.  The East Fork of Shoal Creek flows through Coalton.  The Conrail Railroad line travels through town as well.  Coalton could almost be considered a suburb of Nokomis with the two towns being only 1/4 mile apart.

Coalton is one of two locations in Illinois named Coalton.  The other is a small hamlet (perhaps just a few houses) in eastern Vermilion County in upper-eastern Illinois.

The history of Coalton and its former school system is in need of research.  By its name we can probably deduce that coal mining was a big part of the early settlement of Coalton.  It is likely that Coalton had a school in their town by the late 1800s.  A high school curriculum of some sort was likely in place by the early 1900s.  Coalton High School probably served the kids of the town and the surrouding farm land into the 1940s, maybe even longer.  At some point the decision was made to close Coalton HS.  The kids of Coalton were then sent to the Nokomis school district fo further their education.

The fate of the original Coalton High School building is being sought.

Coalton High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                          late 1800s?

Year closed:                           late 1940s?

Consolidated to:                      Nokomis High School

Coalton HS team nickname:     unavailable

Coalton HS team colors:          unavailable

School Fight Song:                  unavailable

Athletics and Extra-Curriculars

We are fairly certain that the boys of Coalton High participated in interscholastic athletics.  It is probable that the boys played basketball, baseball, and track.  The coach’s names and team records are needed.  Also needed are the team colors, fight song, and team nickname.

Other activities such as proms, dances, class plays, farmer’s institutes, and various clubs may have been a part of the Coalton High School experience as well.  We are hopeful an area fan or alumni can help us with this information.

Do YOU Have Any Further Information?

If you have any information you would like to add to the Coalton High School page please send it to us via e-mail at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net .  A photo of the high school building would be greatly appreciated.  You can also write to us via real mail at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il.   60631

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