The History of Friendsville High School
Friendsville (population 25?) is located in far southeastern Illinois in the east-central portion of Wabash County. The town is situated in a true country setting on County Road 1950N at Friendsville Avenue. The location is about 6 miles north and a little west of Mt. Carmel. Friendsville was established in 1839 and named by early settlers after their home town of Friendsville, PA. Today Friendsville is a crossroads with possibly one street extending from County Road 1950N. There is a cemetery located on the north side of the town.
Friendsville Academy High School existed from approximately 1866 through the early 1920s. According to one newspaper article, the Mt. Carmel Daily Republican, printed on September 08/1936, Friendsville Academy was considered the “Notre Dame of Southern Illinois.” The only knowledge available regarding Friendsville Academy High School are newspaper clippings found on newspapers. com which speak of some events held at Friendsville Academy High School. It is believed the Friendsville High School ceased in the early 1920s however the grade school continued on through at least 1940s.
Friendsville High School was likely a 2 or 3-year high school during its’ later years. Any additional information would be greatly appreciated.
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Friendsville High School ‘Quick Facts’
Year Opened: 1866
Year Closed: late 19-teens / early 1920s.
Consolidated to: Mt. Carmel High School
School Team Mascot: not available
School Team Colors: not available
School Fight Song: not available.
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ATHLETICS
The boys competed in basketball. Baseball and track were likely offered as well. The grade school track team won a meet in 1936. However, Friendsville does not appear to have competed in IHSA basketball tournaments.
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EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
It is likely that clubs, choirs, and other activities were offered to the students of Friendsville High School.
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SEEKING MORE INFORMATION
If you have any further information regarding Friendsville and its former high school please contact us via email at:
ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net
