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Willisville-Percy High School

The History of Willisville-Percy High School

The towns of Percy (population 942) and Willisville (population 694) are located in far southwestern Illinois.  Percy is located in the eastern portion of Randolph County and Willisville is located in the southwestern portion of Perry County. The two towns are connected by Illinois Route 4 and are about 50 miles southeast of East St. Louis.  You can read more about each town’s individual history on their individual pages on this site.

In 1947 the towns of Percy and WIllisville agreed to consolidate their basketball teams for the 1947-48 season.  In 1948 Percy High School, Willisville High School, and Campbell Hill High School combined to form the Trico School District. We do know that Willisville-Percy won a District basketball title in 1948.  The Trico School District history it is stated that the Trico District was formed in the summer of 1948.

A new school for the new District was constructed in a country setting near Campbell Hill and was in operation in 1953.

It is possible that Willisville and Percy only joined forces in athletics and continued to operate their own high schools for one year.  We are searching for information on the history of Willisville-Percy High School.

Willisville-Percy High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                            1947

Year closed:                              1948

Consolidated to:                        Trico School District (Campbell Hill)

Willisville-Percy team nickname: unavailable

Schol colors:                             unavailable

School Fight Song:                    unavailable

Athletics

Willisville-Percy High School definitely offered boys basketball (www.ihsa.org).  Baseball and track were probably also offered.  Team nickname, school colors, fight song, and conference affiliation are all being sought at this time.

Boys Basketball

The W-PHS boys of 1947-48 brought home a District Championship.  Unfortunately this is the only information we currently have available on Williisville-Percy athletics.  IHSA postseason scores located on a website titled “Illinois High School Postseason Basketball Scores” are listed below.

1947-48                  Willisville District Champions           Coach’s name & record needed

Semi-Final Beat Tilden 80-20

                                Title Game Beat Coulterville 41-40

                                Pinckneyville Regional Tourney

                                *1st Rd lost to Sparta 51-44

Pinckneyville beat DuQuoin in title game

*Final game for Willisville-Percy High School, became part of the Trico School District basketball program in the 1948-49 school year.

Need More Information

If you have any further information on the history and accomplishments of Willisville-Percy High School, especially a photo of the high school building used, please write to us via e-mail at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net.  You can also reach us via real mail at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il.   60631


Willisville High School

Willisville High School
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Willisville, Illinois

The History of Willisville High School

Willisville (population 694) is located in far southwestern Illinois in the southwest portion of Perry County.  The town was settled in the late 1800s and recognized as an official Illinois town in 1893. Illinois Route 4 is the main roadway to and from Willisville and is shadowed by the Illinois Central Gulf Railroad, which was instrumental in the town’s early growth.  A branch of the Cox Creek flows to the west of town.  Willisville is located about 20 miles west of DuQuoin and 50 miles southeast of East St. Louis.  It is one of only two towns in the United States with the name of Willisville, the other is in Arkansas.

Willisville was known as a very rough and rugged town with sort of an “old west” flair during its early growth.  It was a mining community of mostly Italian immigants.  According to a web page we found at the address:  http://www.rafert.org/willisville/wville.htm , Willisville even had a few murders and folks who were “suddenly” missing but never found.

The school system for the Willisville children probably started in the late 1800s to early 1900s.  Willisville High School served the town on a solo basis until the mid to late 1940s.  In either the summer of 1946 or 1947 the townspeople of Willisville and nearby Percy elected to pool their resources.  The result was the creation of the Willisville-Percy School District. The District closed shortly after its inception and joined a multi-school consolidation effort known as the Trico (Tricounty) School District.  Trico School District has an educational complex for all grades in a country setting near Campbell Hill.

The new consolidation effort resulted in the termination of all school functions in Willisville.  The students of Willisville attend Trico High School to this day.  The fate of the original Willisville High School building pictured above is not known at this time.  If you have this information please e-mail us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net .

Willisville High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                             late 1800s / early 1900s

Year consolidated with Percy:   1947

Consolidation name:                 Willisville-Percy High School

Willisville HS team nickname:   unavailable

Willisville HS team colors:         unavailable

Willisville HS Fight Song:          unavailable

Athletics

Willisville High School definitely competed in boys basketball as is evidenced by their success listed on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org).  We believe baseball and track may have also been offered.  We are in need of several quick facts items such as team nickname, school colors, and school fight song.  Conference affiliation is also being sought.

Boys Basketball

The Willisville High School boys basketball program won two District titles during their existence.  Coaches names, team records, and good athletes from these and other Willisville HS teams are needed to make this page more complete. Several scores from the IHSA State Tourney involving Willisville are reprinted below as found on a site called “Illinois High School Postseason Basketball Scores.”

1920-21 through 1930-31  Postseason scores, record, and coaches’ names needed.

1931-32                  Pinckneyville District Tourney              Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Evansville 30-11

                               2nd Rd lost to Tamaroa 30-17

Marissa beat DuQuoin in title game

1932-33                  Sparta District Champions                Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Cutler 33-31

                               Semi-Final Beat Evansville 27-16

                               Title Game Beat Marissa 35-28

Carbondale Sectional Tourney

1st Rd lost to Herrin 51-19

Benton beat Metropolis in title game

1933-34  Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1934-35                  Pinckneyville District Tourney              Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd lost to DuQuoin 48-15

Pinckneyville beat DuQuoin in title game

1935-36                   Murphysboro Regional Tourney          Coach’s name & record needed

(Willisville did not compete in District this season.)

1st Rd Beat Chester 24-16

                                Semi-Final lost to Carbondale 35-10

Carterville beat Carbondale in title game.

1936-37                  Pinckneyville District Tourney              Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Baldwin 38-12

                               Lost in 2nd Rd, score needed

Sparta beat Steeleville in title game

1937-38  Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1938-39  Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1939-40  Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1940-41                  Campbell Hill District Tourney              Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Ellis Grove 51-27

                               Semi-Final lost to Percy 45-30

Campbell Hill beat Percy in title game

1941-42  Postseason scores, record, and coach’s name needed.

1942-43                  Willisville District Tourney                     Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Cutler 50-13

                               All other District Scores Needed

1943-44                  IHSA District Champions                   Coach’s name & record needed

District Scores Needed

                               Pinckneyville Regional Tourney

                               1st Rd lost to Sparta 54-39

Pinckneyville beat DuQuoin in title game

1944-45                  Steeleville District Tourney                   Coach’s name & record needed

1st Rd Beat Baldwin 60-25

                               Semi-Final lost to Percy 49-28

Steeleville beat Percy in title game

1945-46                  Willisville District Runner-Up            Coach’s name & record needed

Semi-Final Beat Steeleville 51-39

                               Title Game lost to Percy 61-50

1946-47                  Steeleville District Tourney                   Coach’s name & record needed

*1st Rd lost to Steeleville 67-34

Steeleville beat Coulterville in title game

*Final boys basketball game for Willisville High School. Consolidated with Percy in the summer of 1947 to form Willisville-Percy High School.

Need More Information

If you have ANY further information on the achievements and history of Willisville High School please write to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net.  You can also write to us via real mail at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il.   60631

 



White Hall High School “Maroons”

White Hall High School Building
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Courtesy of Reta Martin Borg
White Hall Factory 1910 – Vital to Town’s Growth
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Submitted by Reta Martin Borg

The History of White Hall High School

White Hall (population 2,629) is located in the lower-western portion of Illinois in north-central Greene County.  U.S. Route 67 is the main roadway leading to and from town.  Illinois Route 106 also takes you to White Hall.  The Crooked Creek and Seminary Creek both flow through town.  The Illinois Central Gulf Railroad and the At & St. Railroad lines both reach White Hall.

White Hall was settled in the 1820s and officially platted in 1833.  A blacksmith shop, one of the very first structures in the area, was long and painted white.  The name White Hall was given to the town.  For a brief but informative history on the origin of White Hall please go to http://www.greene-county.com/whitehall.htm .

Original White Hall HS Bldg. / Served as WHGS
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Submitted by Reta Martin Borg

A nice history of White Hall High School was provided to us by Reta Borg in the form of two articles.  One article was prepared by Dennis Drake (WHHS Class of 1962) for the 2007 White Hall HS alumni banquet. The second article is from 1927 and is titled “The Manual of General Information and Course of Study” for White Hall High School and Grade School. A summary of the information found in both articles is as follows:

The first school was established in White Hall in 1835.  This school served the community through 1868.  At that time a new school building was constructed to accomodate the increasing student enrollment. The building was completed in 1869 with additions to the building constructed in 1889 and 1901.  As this building grew older, and the student population began to swell, the need for a new building was addressed.  In 1922 a modern brick building was constructed and served the White Hall High School district through its merger into the North Greene School District in 1963.

The first graduating class at White Hall High School was the class 1877.  At that time White Hall High School offered a three year course of study.  The school began offering a fourth year of high school studies in 1899.  Enrollment steadily increased from 1877 (17 students) through 1928 (217 students).  The school was well thought of in the area as in 1927 the school accepted 72 students from outside of the school district boundries.

White Hall High School continued on a solo basis through the early 1960s.  It was then that the towns of Roodhouse and White Hall began school consolidation talks.  This effort became a reality in fall of 1963 with the creation of the North Greene School District.

North Greene High School is located in White Hall.  The original White Hall High School building has been torn down.  A new school building was built in its place..

White Hall High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                               late 1800s

Year closed:                                1963

Consolidated to:                           North Greene School District (White Hall)

White Hall HS team nickname:      the “Maroons”

WHHS team colors:                      Maroon & Gold

WHHS School Fight Song:            “Loyalty to White Hall”

                                                                    Submitted by Reta Borg

                                                                    Composed by George Turner in 1905

                                                                    Rewritten by Clarence Whiteside in 1907

                                                  Oh! there’s a school that we all love best!

Its fame has spread through the East and West

                                                  Its glorious deeds are by all confessed

                                                  That’s White Hall – RAH!

                                                  Our boys are loyal, our girls are too,

                                                  Our friends are many, our enemies few,

                                                  Our teachers earnest and kind and true.

                                                  That’s White Hall – RAH!

                                                   (chorus):

                                                  White Hall!  White Hall! school of gold and red,

                                                  School that has always led, school that is far ahead,

                                                  How we love the colors that float above,

                                                  And we will FIGHT and WIN for White Hall, RAH!

                                                  (2nd verse)

                                                  On football field and athletic track

                                                  For heroes many we never lack.

                                                  Each captain, pitcher, or quarterback

                                                  Loves White Hall – RAH!

                                                  We’ll cheer them on till their task is done,

                                                  We’ll give them praise when the victory’s won.

                                                  And work from morning till the set of sun,

                                                  For White Hall – RAH!

                                                  (repeat chorus)

                                                  Cheer after song is sung:

                                                  And a BEEVO, and a BIVO !

                                                  And a BEEVO, BIVO, BUM !

                                                  Come get a cat-trap, bigger than a rat-trap!

                                                  Come get a rat-trap, bigger than a cat-trap!

                                                  ZIZZ – BOOM – BAH!

                                                  ZIZZ – BOOM – BAH!

                                                  WHITE HALL HIGH SCHOOL

                                                  RAH!  RAH!  RAH!!

White Hall High School Fight Song
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Athletics

The White Hall boys had some great athletic seasons to their credit.  How about this for starters….a STATE CHAMPIONSHIP in the IHSA State Track & Field Meet in 1923.  The team returned the next year and finished as Runner-up in 1924!!  Boys basketball and the Speech Individual Events team also had some great seasons.  Team records and coach’s names are also items needed for this site.  White Hall was a member of the Illinois Valley Conference from 1928-1962.

Boys Track & Field

Can’t you just imagine the headlines in the local newspapers:

“White Hall Tracksters Crowned State Champions!!”

The folks who kept “track” of the White Hall track team of 1922-23 didn’t have to imagine it.  They lived it!  In fact besides the state championship effort of 1922-23, the track teams of 1920-21 and 1923-24 also brought home top-ten team finishes at the State Track Meet.  These accomplishments were attained in the Class ‘B’, or smaller school, division of the time. Included were a total of 22 individual medals won at the meets with two gentlemen bringing home a total of three GOLD Medals!!  The incredible success of White Hall boys thinclads are listed below (www.ihsa.org).

1913-14        Individual Medalists

                       ?? Campbell        50 Yard Dash              3RD Place

                       ?? Campbell       100 Yard Dash             4TH Place

                       ?? Roodhouse    440 Yard Dash             4TH Place

1919-20        Individual Medalist

                        ?? Campbell       440 Yard Dash             4TH Place

1920-21        Team Finished NINTH in State Meet ‘B’ Competition!

                        Individual Medalists

                        Ray Goode           Javelin                       STATE CHAMPION!!

                                                     Shot Put                     4TH Place 

                        Final Team Standings

                        1.)  Forrest                                      19

2.)  Carlinville                                 11

3.)  Greenfield                                10.5

3.)  Greenville                                 10.5

4.)  Wheaton (H.S.)                        10

5.)  Carrollton                                   9

6.)  Woodstock (H.S.)                       8

7.)  Havana                                      7

7.)  Dwight                                       7

9.)  Wyoming                                   6

                        9.)  WHITE HALL HIGH SCHOOL     6

                        9.)  Berwyn-Cicero (Morton)               6

1922-23        Team Crowned STATE CHAMPIONS of Class ‘B’ Meet!!    Coach Clarence Whiteside

                        Individual Medalists

                        L. Williams           Pole Vault                  STATE CHAMPION!!

                                                     High Jump                 2ND Place

                        Ray Goode            Javelin                      STATE CHAMPION!!

                                                      Discus                       4TH Place

                        W. Smith               Shot Put                    2ND Place

                                                      Javelin                      5Th Place

                        Final Team Standings

                        1.)  WHITE HALL HIGH SCHOOL    20.5          Coach Clarence Whiteside

2.)  Bridgeport                                 15.5

3.)  Hinsdale (Twp.)                          15

4.)  Carlinville                                   12

5.)  Havana                                      11

1923-24     Team Finished SECOND in the Class ‘B’ State Meet!!

                     Individual Medalists

                     W. Smith                  Javelin                       2ND Place
Shot Put                     3RD Place

                     R. DeVault                High Jump                  3RD Place

                     L. Woolridge            440 Yard Dash             4TH Place

                     H. Wear                    120 Yard Hurdles         5TH Place

                     Relay                        880 Yard Relay            4TH Place

                     Final Team Standings

1.)  Girard                                           20

2.)  WHITE HALL HIGH SCHOOL        16     

2.)  Chesterfield                                   16

4.)  Carlinville                                       15

5.)  Gridley                                          13

5.)  Hinsdale (Twp.)                              13

1932-33        Individual Medalist

                       N. Miller              Pole Vault             5TH Place

1935-36        Individual Medalist

                       Dean Fair           High Jump            4TH Place

1936-37        Individual Medalist

                       Dean Fair           High Jump            3RD Place

1946-47        Individual Medalist

                       Roscoe Orten      880 Yard Run        3RD Place

      

Boys Basketball

The boys basketball team had some excellent seasons as well. A total of FOUR Regional titles and one DIstrict title were won by the WHHS boys.  Unfortunately this is the only information we currently have available to us regarding the boys basketball program.  Team records and coach’s names are being sought.

1928-29             District Champions


1935-36             Regional Champions

1936-37             Regional Champions 

White Hall HS Basketball Team Late 1930s
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1941-42             Regional Champions

                         Lost 2nd Rd. Sectional Game to

Collinsville (event. Sectional Champs)

    

1944-45             Regional Champions

    

1956-57

White Hall HS Basketball 1956-57
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Submitted by John Powell 

1958-59                                                                        Coach Bill McCarthy

White Hall HS Basketball 1958-59
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1959-60             2nd Place – Regional                        Coach Bill Rendleman

                         Beat Piasa Southwestern 69-55

                         Beat Roodhouse 72-54

                         Lost to Jerseyville 73-55

White Hall HS Team of 1959-60
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Submitted by John Powell 
White Hall HS Game Photo 1959-60 Season
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White Hall vs. Roodhouse – 1960
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White Hall HS Basketball Team Early 1960s
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Submitted by B. David McCarthy

The Winchester Invitational Tournament

This annual tournament provided some great games and competition over the years.  Here is some of the better success in this tournament of the White Hall boys as researched by Mark Jurenga:

1927- 3rd Place over Pittsfield

1937- 2nd Place; Lost to Beardstown

1942- 3rd Place over Mt. Sterling

1952- 4th Place; Lost to Arenzville

1953- 3rd Place over Roodhouse

1954- 2nd Place; Lost to Winchester

1955- 2nd Place; Lost to Winchester

Football

The football program at White Hall was a competitive bunch as well.  Two of the team records are listed below.  One interesting story about the early days of White Hall High School was shared by Dennis Drake.

The year was 1923 and an early afternoon game with the boys from Beardstown was scheduled.  The Beardstown boys were traveling by train which on this day was running an hour late.  At 4:30pm in the fall, the game waws begun with dusk starting to settle.  The score was even at 0 – 0 after three quarters of play.  Darkness had settled on the field for the start of the fourth quarter so the fans at the game circled their cars around the playing field and turned on their headlights to help the boys finish the fourth quarter.  White Hall would win the game 6 – 0 when a completed pass from Ray Goode to Hugh Greer resulted in a touchdown. Some say that the pass was not actually completed, rather “Goode retreated into shadows and threw the football away.  Somebody near the goal line tossed another football to Greer” for the win!

You gotta love the ingenuity of the good old days.

1957  6-2-1    2nd place Illinois Valley Conference                Coach Billy McCarthy

1958  5-3-1    3rd place Illinois Valley Conference                 Coach Billy McCarthy

Ivy League Football Conference Standings
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1930
White Hall Football vs. Jerseyville
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1930

Speech Individual Events

The academic aspect of White Hall High School was competitive as well.  One student, Sondra Search, placed 2ND in the Verse Competion at the State Speech Meet.  Sondra’s effort landed the White Hall Speech Team a TENTH Place Finish in 1954-55.  Sondra’s memorable accomplishment is documented below as seen on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org).

1954-55     Team Finished TENTH in State Competition!

                     Individual Medalist

                  

                     Sondra Search               Verse                  2ND Place

                     Final Team Standings

1.)  Champaign (H.S.)                           10

2.)  Calumet City (Thornton Fracti)           9

2.)  Granite City                                     9

4.)  Freeport (H.S.)                                 7

5.)  Pekin                                              6

6.)  Rockford (East)                                5

6.)  Roodhouse                                      5

6.)  Chicago (Morgan Park)                     5

6.)  Paris                                               5

10.)  WHITE HALL HIGH SCHOOL           4

10.)  West Chicago (Wheaton Academy)   4

10.)  Waukegan (H.S.)                              4

10.)  Jacksonville (H.S.)                            4

10.)  Peoria (Woodruff)                              4

White Hall School Teachers of the 1930s

The followinig photo depicts the teaching staff of White Hall schools in the 1930s.

Top (left to right) Norma Hicks (later Wald), Miss Vedder, Mary Callans, Nellie Gibler, Edith Hyatt, Irene Livingston, Mae Nichols and Miss Baker.

Bottom (left to right) Miss Doyle, Miss Mary Evans, Naomi Hudson, Nellie Steelman, Mr. Whiteside, Lena Gibler, Miss Ridings and Sylvia Painer (later Smith)

White Hall School Teachers of the 1930s
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Need More Information

White Hall High School must have some incredible stories of success still available.  Great teams and team records, school nickname, school colors, school fight song, ect., are all items of interest that should be shared.  A photo of the original high school building is especially being sought.  You can e-mail information and photos to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net.  You can also write to us at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il.   60631

WHITE HALL HS GRADUATE, COACH AND PURPLE HEART RECIPIENT BILLY MCCARTHY

Billy D McCarthy and Howard Berline
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Submitted by B. David McCarthy

Billy D McCarthy, or Diz as he was better known, was a graduate of White Hall HS. He would later go on to coach at White Hall, Roodhouse, and North Greene as well as four years at Auburn in the mid-60’s where he won an MSM title in football. After high school McCarthy enlisted in the USMC the day after Pearl Harbor and served in the Pacific theater—earning the Purple Heart for wounds in battle. Later he attended Illinois College.

McCarthy enjoyed teaching, but he loved coaching. In high school he was awarded 12 varsity letters—a four year letter winner in football, basketball, and track. This feat was also accomplished by his granddaughter—who was a four year letter winner in volleyball, basketball, and softball—not at WH-NG however. She later graduated from Illinois College.

Coach McCarthy taught at White Hall from 1955 thru 1962. He then taught at Roodhouse in the 1962-63 school year. When coloration between White Hall and Roodhouse into North Greene occurred I believe was the 1963-64 school year, he lost his position due to the switch the previous year caused him to no longer have seniority or tenure. Coach McCarthy worked for the IL Secretary of State in 1963-64 and then took a teaching and coaching position at Auburn HS in Auburn, IL He left Auburn in 1969 to return to White Hall North Greene HS.

To read an oral interview and history given by Coach Billy D. McCarthy please click on the following link:

http://www.idaillinois.org/cdm/ref/collection/uis/id/3104

White Hall School Buildings
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White Hall High School
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WHITE HALL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT BODY 1926 – SUBMITTED BY LARS JOHNSON – “My mother was in this class. Geraldine Ballard. My grandmother taught English here. My grandfather Roy Ballard was a well known member of the WH Community. Lars Johnson Geraldine’s son.

Wheaton-Warrenville High School “Wolverines”

Wheaton-Warrenville High School
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheaton_Warrenville_South_High_School

The History of Wheaton-Warrenville High School

Wheaton (population 55,416) is located in northeastern Illinois in central DuPage County. Wheaton is a western suburb of Chicago and is situated about  miles west of downtown Chicago.  Illinois Route 38 leads you to and from the town of Wheaton.  In addition, Illinois Routes 56 and 64 are located on the south and north sides of Wheaton as well. Interstate Highway 88 runs about 3 miles south of Wheaton which connects to it via Naperville Road.

Warrenville (population 13,798) is located just southwest of Wheaton.  Illinois Route 56 (Butterfield Road), Winfield Road, and Warrenville Road all lead you to and from Warrenville. Interstate Highway 88 passes by the south edge of town. The West Branch of the DuPage River flows through the center of Warrenville

A brief history of the city of Wheaton can be found on the town’s web address of http://www.wheaton.il.us/Community/History-of/index.htm .  In brief, the ara of Wheaton was settled in 1836 by Erastus Gary and Jesse and Warren Wheaton. The group purchased land and allowed the railroad to pass through the area for free. The railroad workers posted a sign at the depot on the land that simply stated “Wheaton Depot”. The name has stuck ever since.

A brief history of Warrenville was located on the Wikepedia web address of http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warrenville,_Illinois .  Further history on the town can be viewed at  http://www.villageprofile.com/illinois/warrenville/14his/topic.html .  In summary, Warrenville was named after its founder, Julius Warren, in 1833. His family built the first business, an Inn/Tavern in 1838 which incredibly still stands and is used today.  After moderate but steady growth for over 100 years, Warrenville was finally incorporated as an official Illinois city in 1967 with 4,000 residents.  The town saw its most significant growth in the 1970s through the 1990s to its current population of nearly 14,000.

The history of Wheaton-Warrenville High School can be viewed at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheaton_Warrenville_South_High_School . In 1973 the population of Wheaton, Warrenville, and the surrounding areas had the school district of Wheaton bustling with students.  It was decided in 1973 that a new high school was needed to serve the growing population. This school would be located on the southern portion of Wheaton and named Wheaton-Warrenville High School. Wheaton now had three high schools, Wheaton North, Wheaton Central, and Wheaton-Warrenville.

For various reasons it was determined in 1983 that three high schools were no longer needed to serve the area.  The result was the closing of Wheaton-Warrenville High School.  After years of discussion, the decision was made to move Wheaton Central High School the Wheaton-Warrenville high school building.  Wheaton Central was renamed Wheaton Warrenville South High School. Wheaton Warrenville South assumed the traditions and athletic nicknames of Wheaton Central.

Wheaton-Warrenville High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                           1973

Year closed:                            1983

Consolidated to:                       Wheaton Central HS / Wheaton North HS

W-WHS team nickname:          the “Wolverines”

W-WHS team colors:               Green & Gold

School Fight Song:                   unavailable

ATHLETICS

The Wheaton-Warrenville “Wolverines” may have had only ten school years to make their mark in the IHSA, but make their mark they did!  Several team and individual accomplishments were recorded by both the boys and girls of W-WHS.  We are missing several items including school fight song, coach’s names, and tam records of several of the teams in W-WHS history.  The better accomplishments as listed on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org) are inturn listed below.

BOYS BASEBALL

Wolverines had some real nice seasons on the baseball diamond.  Three Regional Titles highlighted the successes of the program.  Team records and coach’s names of these and other W-WHS baseball teams are being sought.

1974-75          Regional Champions
1977-78          Regional Champions
1978-79          Regional Champions

BOYS BASKETBALL

The boys basketball program won one Regional TItle, that one coming during the school’s final season.  Other team records and coach’s names are being sought as well.

1981-82                                                          Coach Barry Brennan
1982-83   11 – 16      Regional Champions      Coach Barry Brennan

                               School’s Final Season

GIRLS BASKETBALL

The Lady Wolverines had a magical season in 1977-78.  Regional and Sectional titles that year allowed the hardwood court ladies to reach the Sweet 16 round of play.  The girls of 1979-80 also brought home a Regional title.  Coach’s names and team records of other great W-WHS girls basketball teams would be a welcome addition.

1977-78   21 – 4  IHSA Tournament SWEET 16 Finalists!  Coach Rosanna Hart
Regional Champions

                         Sectional Champions

                         Sweet 16 Finalists

1979-80              Regional Champions

BOYS FOOTBALL

1973-74                                                                 Coach Howard (Harold) Barnes

1974-75    5 – 4                                                       Coach Howard (Harold) Barnes

1976-77            Team Qualified for IHSA Playoffs  Coach Dan Boals

                        CLASS 4A FINAL FOUR!

                        Beat Streator 7 – 6

                        Beat Glenbard North 28 – 12

                        Lost to Danville 14 – 0

Danville finished 2nd

BOYS GOLF

The linksters won a pair of District titles in boys golf.  Coach’s names would be a nice addition below. 

Dave Hahn complimented the District Champs of 1977 by earning the Individual State Championship for Class AA!!

1977-78          Team Won District Championship

                      Individual Medalist

Dave Hahn            Class AA STATE CHAMPION!!
1981-82          Team Won District Championship

GIRLS GOLF

The lady linksters won a District title and garnered a TENTH Place finish in the 1977-78 season as well. Coach’s names are needed.

1977-78          Team Finished TENTH in IHSA State Finals!! 

                      District Champions

1978-79          Team Qualified for State Finals

 

BOYS SOCCER

The boys soccer program won two Sectional Championships qualifynig them for the State Finals both years.  Their great seasons are listed below.

1976-77   13 – 2 – 4   Team Won Sectional Championship  Coach Leon Busboom

                               Qualified for State Finals

1978-79   18 – 11      Team Won Sectional Championship  Coach Leon Busboom
Qualified for State Finals

GIRLS SWIMMING

One female athlete carried the banner for all Wheaton-Warrenville High School swimmers.  Linda Krauser won a total of FOUR medals in four different State Finals meets!

1976          Individual Medalist  –  Linda Krauser      500 Free       6TH Place
1978          Individual Medalist  –  Linda Krauser      500 Free       5TH Place
1979(Feb)  Individual Medalist  –  Linda Krauser      500 Free       2ND Place
1979(Nov)  Individual Medalist  –  Linda Krauser      500 Free       3RD Place

GIRLS TENNIS

The tennis team of 1975-76 finished tenth in the State finals after winning the District title.  The team of 1978-79 also won a District title.

1975-76      Team Finished TENTH in STATE Finals!

                  District Champions  

1978-79      Team Won District Champions

BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Though no team hardware was won, the boys of Wheaton-Warrenville did earn a total of four medals at the IHSA State Meet.

1977-78AA  Individual Medalists  –  Tom Fieweger   Shot Put          4TH Place
Jeff Patnaude    100 YD Dash    5TH Place
220 YD Dash    5TH Place

1979-80AA  Individual Medalist  –     Dennis Slott       Shot Put          8TH Place

GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Two thinclads from the girls track program also earned medals at the IHSA State Finals Meet.

1977-78AA   Individual Medalist  –  Kelly Imhoff    Shot Put         8TH Place

1981-82AA   Individual Medalist  –  Deb Czajka     1600 M Run     5TH Place
3200 M Run     5TH Place

BOYS WRESTLING

Two grapplers earned medals at the IHSA State Finals as well.

1977AA  Individual Medalist  –  Dave Aldrich        138 Lbs. Weight Class  5Th Place

1980AA  Individual Medalist  –  Bruce Nordstrom  155 Lbs. Weight Class  2ND Place

THE ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

Several team and individual accomplishments were attained in the Speech and Drama programs at Wheaton-Warrenville High School.  In fact, on four occassions the program earned top-ten finishes at State Meet competition.  These accomplishments, as listed on the IHSA website, are in turn listed below.

DRAMA COMPETITION

1973-74           Team Won District Championship 

1974-75           Team Placed THIRD in IHSA Finals!

                       District Champions

                       Sectional Champions  

1975-76           Team Won District Championship

1976-77           Team Placed TENTH in IHSA Finals!

                       District Champions

1979-80           Team Placed NINTH in IHSA Finals!

GROUP INTERPRETATION

1973-74           Team Won District Championship
1974-75           Team Won District Championship
1975-76           Team Won District Championship

1980-81           Team Placed NINTH in IHSA Finals!

SPEECH INDIVIDUAL EVENTS

Two Sectional titles, two District titles, and one Regional championship were the highlights of the team accomplishments in this category. Eight individuals also won medals at the state finals.

1974-75           Team Won District Championship

                       Individual Medalist

                       Mary Stevenson         Orig Oratory      4TH Place

1976-77           Team Won Sectional Championship

1977-78           Individual Medalists

                       Andrea Rennbak         Humor Interp   4TH Place
Keith Gardner             Radio               6TH Place

1980-81           Individual Medalists

                       Sean Fetter                 Dram Interp     4TH Place
Donna Hadrava           Orat Declam    6TH Place

1981-82           Team Won District & Sectional Championships  Coach Les Schomas

                       Individual Medalists
Karen Stehlik              Humor Duet     2ND Place
Jeff Wagner                Humor Duet     2ND Place

1982-83           Team Won Regional Championship

Individual Medalist

                       Chris Marsden             Orig Comedy   2ND Place 

We Need Your Assistance…

…in researching the history and accomplishments attained by the Wheaton-Warrenville High School students and their former high school.  If you have any information you would like to see added to this page, please write to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. You can also send items to us via real mail at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il.  60631



Wheaton Central High School “Tigers”

Original Wheaton High School
A picture containing tree, outdoor, old

Description automatically generated
http://www.wwshs.org/school%20history/school.htm Wheaton Central High School
http://www.wwshs.org/school%20history/school.htm

The History of Wheaton High School & Wheaton Central High School

Wheaton (population 55,416) is located in northeastern Illinois in central DuPage County. Wheaton is a western suburb of Chicago and is situated about  miles west of downtown Chicago.  Illinois Route 38 leads you to and from the town of Wheaton.  In addition, Illinois Routes 56 and 64 are located on the south and north sides of Wheaton as well. Interstate Highway 88 runs about 3 miles south of Wheaton which connects to it via Naperville Road.

A brief history of the city of Wheaton can be found on the town’s web address of http://www.wheaton.il.us/Community/History-of/index.htm .  In brief, the ara of Wheaton was settled in 1836 by Erastus Gary and Jesse and Warren Wheaton. The group purchased land and allowed the railroad to pass through the area for free. The railroad workers posted a sign at the depot on the land that simply stated “Wheaton Depot”. The name has stuck ever since.

Wheaton was incorporated as an Illinois village in 1859.  The town’s first president was Warren Wheaton. In 1867 the town of Wheaton was named the county seat of DuPage County. It has continuously grown into being one of the Chicago area’s most affluent communities.

A great history of Wheaton High School and Wheaton Central High School can be viewed at http://www.wwshs.org/school%20history/school.htm. In summary, Wheaton High School was started in 1876. The first graduating class received their diplomas in 1884. A newer school building was built in 1925 and the name was changed to Wheaton Community High School.  Photos of the original Wheaton High School and Wheaton Community High Schools can be viewed above, as shown on the Wheaton Warrenville South High School website.

Growing population in the western suburban area led to the need for two high schools in Wheaton.  This occurred in 1964 with the creation of Wheaton North High School.  The original Wheaton Community High School was renamed Wheaton Central High School.  This arrangement remained until a further school effort resulted in the creation of Wheaton Warrenville South High School in 1992.  The Wheaton Central High School building became a grammar school as a new building was built to house Wheaton Warrenville South High School.

Wheaton High School and Wheaton Central High School have produced some very famous alumni as well.  Among the most well known are Harold “Red” Grange, John Belushi, and Bob Woodward.

The original Wheaton High School building has been razed to make way for a grammar school.  Wheaton Central High School building is now used as the Hubble Middle School.

Wheaton / Wheaton Central High School Quick Facts

Year opened as Wheaton High School:      1876

First graduating class:                                 1884

Year name changed to Wheaton Central:   1964

Year Wheaton Central closed:                      1992

School name changed to:                          Wheaton Warrenville South High School

Wheaton Central HS team nickname:         the “Tigers”

Wheaton Central HS team colors:              Orange & Black

School Fight Song:                                   “Bring a Victory Home”

Lyrics provided by WILL & MAGGIE GREENE (Class of

                                                                                    1968)

                                                                                    To the tune of “The Invincible USA” – provided by Chris Bailey

                                                               Play play boys play

                                                               Let Victory be yours today

                                                               You’re the boys from our home town

                                                               So Play play boys play

                                                               You’re the boys from our home town

                                                               Bring a victory home today

                                                                           Rah Rah!!

ATHLETICS

Wheaton High School and Wheaton Central High School had several very successful athletic teams in their long and storied history. Some incredible athletes have also donned the orange and black of the “Tigers”.  Below are listed the athletic accomplishments of the Wheaton and Wheaton Central High School “Tigers as listed on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org).

GIRLS BADMINTON

The girls badminton program won a District Title in the 1980-81 season.  Team records and coach’s names of this and other great WCHS badminton teams are being sought.

Memories of the 1980-81 District Championship team have been provided by Maria De La Rosa:

“I was part of the 80-81 district badminton team.  I don’t have my yearbooks handy to verify who exactly was teamed up in districts.  Lisa Grubbs, Patti Vivoda, played singles and I, Marcia Sasman played doubles, along with 3 other players.  We had an excellent coach, Mrs. LaBudde, a phys ed  teacher, my first 3 years of the team, but she retired and we had a different “coach” our senior year.  There were only 2 returning players my freshman year, so all those my age played varsity all 4 years. Lisa Grubbs also qualified and played in the state tournament in 79-80 and 80-81 season.  Patti Vivoda also qualified and played in state 80-81.”

As Wheaton Central High School

1980-81    District Champions

BOYS BASEBALL

The Tigers brought home two Regional Championships from the baseball diamond. Coach’s names and team records from these and other great baseball teams in WHS and WCHS history are needed.

As Wheaton High School

1959-60         Regional Champions

As Wheaton Central High School

1971-72         Regional Champions

Wheaton Central also competed in summer baseball and had some excellent teams in the late 1960s through the mid-1980s.

1963-64   District Champions     Coach Lyle Morrow

1965-66   District Champions     Coach Lyle Morrow

1968-69   District Champions     Coach Lyle Morrow

1970-71   District Champions     Coach Lyle Morrow

1971-72   District Champions     Coach Lyle Morrow 

                Regional Champions
1973-74   District Champions     Coach Lyle Morrow

Total wins/losses from 1963 to 1986       315 wins  and 282 losses

Wheaton Central Summer School Baseball

From 1976 to 1986, the team won 168 games and lost 121

*The Summer Team won the District Tournament 6 times

*The Summer Team won the Regional Tournament 5 times

*The Summer Team won one Sectional Tournament and then
participated in the 4-team State Finals losing to Rich Central in 1979.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

The Wheaton Central High School Lady Tigers faired quite well on the hardwood court in the 1980s.  Seven Regional Championships, two Sectional Championships (back to back), and a SECOND PLACE FINISH in the State Tournament highlighted the Lady Tiger successes.

As Wheaton Central High School

1980-81              Regional Champions
1982-83              Regional Champions


1983-84   24 – 5   Sweet 16 Finalist                                Coach Rich Jarom
Regional Champions

                          Sectional Champions

                          Super Sectional Finalist

1984-85   29 – 3    IHSA Class AA SECOND PLACE!!        Coach Rich Jarom
Regional Champions

                          Sectional Champions

                          Super-Sectional Champions

                          Elite 8 Finalist

Beat Libertyville 58 – 50

                          Final Four Finalist

                          Beat Maine West  30 – 25

                          State Championship Game Finalist

                          Lost to Marshall 63 – 37

  

1986-87              Regional Champions
1987-88              Regional Champions
1988-89              Regional Champions
1991-92              Regional Champions

Last season as Wheaton Central

BOYS BASKETBALL

The Tigers made three trips to the state finals in basketball before the school’s name change to Wheaton-Warrenville High School. As Wheaton High School the Tigers qualified for the State Tourney Finals on two occassions.  As Wheaton Central the boys of 1965-66 earned a trip to the Sweet 16 round of the state tournament. The team of 1980-81 went one step further, bringing home a Fourth Place Trophy from the Class AA Tournament!! The basketball accomplishments we are able to locate are listed below, as found on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org)

As Wheaton High School

1907-08   10 – 2    Team Qualified for State Tournament Finals

                           Elite 8 Finalist

                           Lost to Peoria HS  41 – 26

Peoria HS eventual State Champs

1924-25               District Champions
1926-27               District Champions


1928-29   20 – 4    Team Qualified for State Tournament Finals    Coach Grant Stenger

                           Elite 8 Finalist 

                           District Champions

                           Sectional Champions

Lost to Freeport 30 – 28

Freeport Finished 3rd

                          

1929-30                District Champions
1942-43                District Champions

1944-45                Regional Champions
1951-52                Regional Champions
1952-53                Regional Champions
1960-61                Regional Champions

As Wheaton Central High School

1965-66   24 – 5     Sweet 16 Finalist                                      Coach Al Duhm

                            Regional Champions

                            Sectional Champions

Lost to Harvey Thornton 61 – 57

Thornton Won State Championship

Thornton won final 3 games be 12 or more pts.

 

1967-68     2 – 22

1968-69                Regional Champions
1971-72                Regional Champions

1973-74                Regional Champions
1975-76   19 – 8     Regional Champions            Coach Don McGee

1976-77   14 – 13                                                Coach Don McGee

1977-79                                                             Coach Don McGee

1979-80   18 – 9                                                  Coach Don McGee

1980-81   25 – 6     Team Finished FOURTH in Class AA Tourney  Coach Don McGee

                            Regional Champions

                            Sectional Champions

                            Super-Sectional Champions

                            Beat LaGrange (Lyons Twnshp) 65 – 61

                            Elite 8 Finalist

                            Beat Effingham 38 – 33

                            Final Four Finalist

                            Lost to Quincy 65 – 34

Quincy eventual State Champs

Quincy’s closest game in final 16 was 25pts.!!

Third Place Game Finalist

Lost to Chgo Westinghouse 53 – 47

1981-82    9 – 18    Regional Champions            Coach Don McGee

1982-83                                                             Coach Don McGee

1983-86                                                             Coach Not Available

1986-87                                                             Coach Barry Brennan

1987-88   11 – 15    Regional Champions           Coach Barry Brennan

1988-89   17 – 11                                                Coach Barry Brennan

1989-90   17 – 9      Regional Champions           Coach Barry Brennan

1990-91   16 – 11                                                Coach Barry Brennan

1991-92           Last season as Wheaton Central   Coach Barry Brennan

BOYS FOOTBALL

The Grid Iron stage was set from the “git-go” in Wheaton High School history.  The IHSA website lists Wheaton High School’s first football team as having competed in 1912.  That team finished with an undefeated (3-0-1) record.  The Tigers have never looked back.  As Wheaton High School, and then Wheaton Central, the Tigers boasted winning records in all but 13 of the 81 seasons listed.  Undefeated regular seasons (there were no state playoffs until 1974) were accomplished in ten different seasons.

One of Wheaton High School’s most famous sons, and one of America’s most famous football players, Harold “Red” Grange, played for the Wheaton HS Tigers in the very early 1920s.

As Wheaton High School

1912-13    3 – 0 – 1          Coach F.C. Berry

1913-14    7 – 1               Coach F.C. Berry

1914-15                         Coach F.C. Berry

1915-16    5 – 2               Coach F.C. Berry

1916-17    6 – 1 – 1          Coach F.C. Berry

1917-18    5 – 2 – 1          Coach Castle

1918-19                         Coach C.V. Mitchell

1919-20    5 – 0 – 1          Coach C.V. Mitchell

1920-21    7 – 1               Coach Dink Weldon

1921-22    7 – 1               Coach Dink Weldon

1922-23    9 – 0               Coach Dink Weldon

1923-24    6 – 3               Coach Dink Weldon

1924-25    6 – 1               Coach Dink Weldon

1925-26    6 – 2               Coach Dink Weldon

1926-27    6 – 1 – 1          Coach Dink Weldon

1927-28    6 – 1 – 1          Coach Grant Steger

1928-29    8 – 0               Coach Grant Steger
1929-30    8 – 0               Coach Grant Steger

1930-31    5 – 2               Coach Grant Steger

1931-32    4 – 1 – 2          Coach Grant Steger

1932-33                         Coach Grant Steger

1933-34    4 – 1 – 2          Coach Grant Steger

1934-36                         Coach Grant Steger

1936-37                         Coach Bob Horsley

1937-38    7 – 1               Coach Bob Horsley

1938-39    8 – 1               Coach Bob Horsley

1939-40    5 – 4               Coach Bob Horsley

1940-41    9 – 0               Coach Bob Horsley

1941-42    7 – 2               Coach Bob Horsley

1942-43    5 – 3 – 1          Coach Bud Colin

1943-44    6 – 3               Coach Bud Colin

1944-45    6 – 2 – 1          Coach Bud Colin

1945-46    6 – 1 – 1          Coach Bud Colin

1946-47                         Coach Bud Colin

1947-48    6 – 3 – 1          Coach Bob Horsley

1948-49    8 – 2               Coach Bob Horsley

1949-50    8 – 0 – 1          Coach Bob Horsley

1950-51    6 – 3               Coach Bob Horsley

1951-52    8 – 0 – 1          Coach Bob Horsley

1952-53    6 – 2 – 1          Coach Bob Horsley

1953-54    8 – 0               Coach Bob Horsley
1954-55    9 – 0               Coach Bob Horsley

1955-56    6 – 3               Coach Bud Colin

1956-57    6 – 3               Coach Howard Barnes

1957-58    7 – 1               Coach Howard Barnes

1958-59    3 – 3               Coach Howard Barnes

1959-60    4 – 2 – 1          Coach Howard Barnes

1960-61                         Coach Howard Barnes

1961-62    5 – 2 – 1          Coach Howard Barnes

1962-63    4 – 4               Coach Howard Barnes

1963-64    6 – 3               Coach Howard Barnes

As Wheaton Central High School

1964-65    6 – 3               Coach Howard Barnes

1965-66    8 – 1               Coach Howard Barnes

1966-67    5 – 3 – 1          Coach Rex Sherman

1967-68    7 – 2               Coach Howard Barnes

1968-69    8 – 1               Coach Howard Barnes

1969-70                          Coach Don Arnold

1970-71    5 – 4               Coach Andy Hauptman

1971-72    5 – 4               Coach Andy Hauptman

1972-73                          Coach Andy Hauptman

1973-74    6 – 4               Coach Andy Hauptman

1974-75    5 – 5               Coach Andy Hauptman

1975-76    5 – 4               Coach Andy Hauptman

1976-77    6 – 2 – 1          Coach Andy Hauptman

1977-78    6 – 3               Coach Andy Hauptman

1978-80                         Coach Andy Hauptman

1980-81    5 – 4               Coach John Thorne

1981-82                         Coach John Thorne

1982-83    5 – 4               Coach John Thorne

1983-84    6 – 3               Coach John Thorne

1984-85                         Coach John Thorne

1985-86    5 – 4               Coach John Thorne

1986-87    5 – 4               Coach John Thorne

1987-88    5 – 4               Coach John Thorne

1988-89    8 – 4   Team Qualified for Class 5A Playoffs  Coach John Thorne

                         Elite 8 Finalist


1989-90  11 – 2   Team Qualified for Class 5A Playoffs  Coach John Thorne

                         Final Four Finalist

 

1990-91  12 – 2   Team Qualified for Class 5A Playoffs  Coach John Thorne

                         IHSA STATE RUNNER-UP!!

 

1991-92  11 – 3   Team Qualified for Class 5A Playoffs  Coach John Thorne
IHSA STATE RUNNER-UP!!

 

Last season as Wheaton Central HS

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Three individual medalists (one WHS, two at WCHS) and a team District Championship were the highlights of the Wheaton “Tigers” program.

As Wheaton High School

1960-61   Individual Medalist   –   Dave Bartel          8th Place
1961-62   Individual Medalist   –   Dave Bartel          2ND Place

As Wheaton Central High School

1969-70   Individual Medalist   –   Steve Murray        15th Place

 

1972-73  Team Won District Championship

              Individual Medalist   –    Tom Howell          20th Place

1991-92  Cameron Monti – DuPage Valley Conference Champ!

              Only Wheaton Central harrier to accomplish this feat

              running a 14:26 time for a 3-mile course! 

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

The Lady Tiger harriers faired well in the late 1980s and early 1990s.  Three top-ten team finishes and two individual medalists were the recorded successes of the program on the IHSA website.

As Wheaton Central High School

1988-89        Team Finished NINTH in IHSA Competition!! 

1989-90        Team Finished EIGHTH in IHSA Competition!! 

 

1991-92        Team Finished THIRD in IHSA Competition!!

                    Individual Medalists

                    Jessica Haremza         17th Place
Amaryllis Seabrooks   18th Place

 

1992-93         Regional Champions 

BOYS GOLF

The linksters qualified for four IHSA State Match competitions and brought home two top-ten finishes.  Two individuals brought home medals as well.

As Wheaton High School

1920-21     Individual Medalist  –  ?? Dawson      3RD Place
1924-25     Individual Medalist  –  ?? Dawson      6TH Place

1958-59     Team Qualified for IHSA State Competition


1959-60     Team Placed SIXTH in IHSA State Competition!!

                 District Champions

                 Individual Medalist  –  Fred Schultz   9TH Place

 

1960-61     Team Placed SEVENTH in IHSA State Competition!!

                 District Champions

                 Individual Medalist  –  Fred Schultz   10TH Place

1961-62     Team Qualified for IHSA State Competition

                 District Champions

GIRLS GOLF

The ladys had a great season of their own as far as IHSA competitioin is concerned.  The group of 1990-91 brought home an EIGHTH place finish with one individual earning medalist honors.

As Wheaton Central High School

1990-91        Team Finished EIGHTH in IHSA Competition!!

                    Individual Medalist  –  Kelley Heatherington   14TH Place

BOYS GYMNASTICS

The gymnastics program at Wheaton Central proved to be a successful one in the early 1970s. Six boys and one girl medaled in State Meet Competition.  In fact, the boys team of 1969-70 earned a FIFTH place finish in the IHSA team competition.

As Wheaton Central High School

1964-65    Individual Medalist  –  Don Hatch             Rings             STATE CHAMPION!!

1967-68    Individual Medalist  –  Dean Showalter    All-Around     5TH Place
Horiz. Bars    5TH Place
Rings             5TH Place

1968-69    Individual Medalist  –  Kerry Ruhl             Horiz. Bars    3RD Place

 

1969-70    Team Finished FIFTH in STATE MEET!!

                District Champions

                Individual Medalists  –  Tim Kessen          Rings            3RD Place
Kerry Ruhl           Horiz Bars     4TH Place

 

1970-71     Team Won District Championship

1971-72     Individual Medalist  –  Don Young            Horse            2ND Place

1972-73     Individual Medalist  –  Kelly Harmon       All-Around     3RD Place

GIRLS GYMNASTICS

As Wheaton Central High School

1979-80     Individual Medalist  –  Melanie Waite      Vault             3RD Place

BOYS SOCCER

As Wheaton Central High School

1972-73                  District Champions
1973-74                  District Champions


1974-75  16 – 4 – 3   Team Placed SECOND in IHSA STATE Tourney  Coach Al Duhm

                              Sectional Champions

1976-77  17 – 6 – 1   Team Placed SECOND in IHSA STATE Tourney  Coach Al Duhm
Sectional Champions

1977-78  17 – 3 – 5    Team Won Sectional Championship                   Coach Al Duhm
1979-80  20 – 4 – 1    Team Won Sectional Championship                   Coach Al Duhm

1983-84  21 – 2 – 1    Team Placed SECOND in IHSA STATE Tourney  Coach Frank Bucciferro
Regional Champions

                               Sectional Champions    

1984-85                   Team Won Regional Championship
1986-87                   Team Won Regional Championship
1989-90                   Team Won Regional Championship
1990-91                   Team Won Regional Championship
1991-92  12 – 9 – 1    Team Won Regional Championship               Coach Guy Callipari

GIRLS SOCCER

As Wheaton Central High School

1987-88    8 – 4 – 3       Coach Gary Luckey

GIRLS SOFTBALL

Two trips to the IHSA state finals, two Sectional titles, and four Regional titles highlighted the successes of the Lady Tiger softball program.

As Wheaton Central High School

1980-81   29 – 7    Team Qualified for State Finals        Coach Joe Gerace

                           Regional Champions

                           Sectional Champions

                           Elite 8 Finalist

                           Beat Machesny Park  5 – 4

                           Final Four Finalist

                           Lost to Herrin  3 – 2

Herrin Finished 2nd

1981-82                Regional Champions
1982-83                Regional Champions


1984-85   24 – 5    Team Qualified for State Finals        Coach Kenneth Olsen

                           Regional Champions

                           Sectional Champions

                           Elite 8 Finalist

Lost to Rock Island Alleman  2 – 0

Alleman won State Championship

BOYS SWIMMING

One male swimmer had an incredible year at Wheaton Central. Gardner Howland earned three 2ND Place Medals in the late 1970s at the IHSA State Swimming Meet.

As Wheaton Central High School

1976-77  Individual Medalist  –  Gardner Howland     100 Fly        2ND Place
200 IM         2ND Place

1977-78  Individual Medalist  –  Gardner Howland      200 IM         2ND Place

GIRLS SWIMMING

Courtney Coleman represented the girls swimming program at Wheaton Central quite proudly winning two medals in the 1990-91 State Meet.

As Wheaton Central High School

1990-91  Individual Medalist  –  Courtney Coleman    200 Free       2ND Place
500 Free       3RD Place

BOYS TENNIS

A NINTH place state Tourney finish, three District titles, and two individual medals highlighted the boys tennis successes.

As Wheaton High School

1959-60     Team Finished NINTH in State Tournament

                 Individual Medalists

                 Tom Powell             Doubles        5TH Place
Tim Wright              Doubles         5TH Place

 

As Wheaton Central High School

1970-71      Team Won District Championship
1978-79      Team Won District Championship
1979-80      Team Won District Championship

GIRLS TENNIS 

The Lady Tigers won three Sectional Championships, two District Championships, and one individual medal.

As Wheaton Central High School

1973-74      Team Won District Championship
1976-77      Team Won District Championship
1987-88      Team Won Sectional Championship


1988-89      Team Won Sectional Championship

                  Individual Medalist

                  Breda Dean         Singles        5TH Place


1991-92      Team Won Sectional Championship

BOYS TRACK & FIELD

The Tiger boys thinclads of Wheaton High placed in the top-ten of the IHSA State Meet on TEN different occassions, coming close to winning the whole thing in 1929-30.  In addtion, 12 individuals won gold medals, including the legendary Harold “Red” Grange who earned four Gold Medals of the seven that he won for WHS.  Wheaton HS boys teams won two District titles as well.

Some excellent information on the Tigers first State Champ in Track, Edwin Hubble, was provided to us by our long time fan Mark Jurenga:

“1906 State Champion High Jump Edwin Hubble. Here are some facts about him.

*At the time, Hubble set the state record for high jump.

*Edwin Hubble once won seven firsts and one third in ONE HS track meet!

*He was a Major in the Army in World War I.

*He was a high school basketball coach in New Albany, Indiana where he also taught Science.

*He was a graduate of the University of Chicago.

*Hubble was a Rhoads Scholar at Oxford University in England

*Hubble was a world reknowned Astronomer.

*The Hubble Space Telescope is named after him.

*He won the Catherine Wolfe Bruce Gold Medal is awarded every year by the Astronomical Society of the Pacific for outstanding lifetime contributions to the field of astronomy.

*Hubble also earned the Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society in 1940.

*Edwin Hubble won the Medal of Merit for outstanding contribution to ballistics research in 1946.”

Incredible accomplishments for any individual!!

Here are the highlights of the Wheaton Central High School boys track program:

As Wheaton High School

1905-06        Team Finished FOURTH at IHSA State Meet!! 

                    Individual Medalists

                    *Edwin Hubble             High Jump           STATE CHAMPION!!
Ned Welden                 440 Yard Dash     STATE CHAMPION!!
Ray Brewster               1 Mile Run           3RD Place

                   

1919-20        Individual Medalist

                    Harold “Red” Grange    High Jump         STATE CHAMPION!!

                                                          100 Yard Dash    3RD Place
220 Yard Dash    4TH Place

1920-21        Team Finished FOURTH at IHSA State Meet!!

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Harold “Red” Grange    100 Yard Dash     STATE CHAMPION!!
Long Jump         STATE CHAMPION!!

 

1921-22        Team Finished FIFTH at IHSA State Meet!!

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Harold “Red” Grange    220 Yard Dash       STATE CHAMPION!! 

                                                         100 Yard Dash        3RD Place
Lawrence “Gob” Plummer   880 Yd. Run    4TH Place
RELAY TEAM                        880 Yd. Relay  4TH Place

 

1922-23        Team Finished SIXTH at IHSA State Meet!!

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    RELAY TEAM                      880 Yard Relay  STATE CHAMPION!!

                    Charles “Huck” Dollinger   440 Yard Dash    4TH Place

                    Garland Grange                 Pole Vault          5TH Place
Lowrie Wheaton                220 Yard Dash    4TH Place

 

1923-24        Team Finished SEVENTH at IHSA State Meet!!

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Lowrie Wheaton                220 Yard Dash    3RD Place

                                                              100 Yard Dash    4TH Place
Albert Colby                         50 Yard Dash    3RD Place

                    RELAY TEAM                      880 Yard Relay   2ND Place

1924-25        Team Finished FIFTH at IHSA State Meet!!

                    Individual Medalists

                    Lowrie Wheaton                220 Yard Dash     2ND Place

                                                              100 Yard Dash     3RD Place
RELAY TEAM                      880 Yard Relay   3RD Place

 

1926-27        Individual Medalists

                    RELAY TEAM                      880 Yard Relay   2ND Place

 

1928-29        Individual Medalist

                    Oliver Olson                       High Jump          2ND Place

1929-30        Team Finished SECOND at IHSA State Meet!!

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Arthur Jens                        120 Yd Hurdles   STATE CHAMPION!!

                    Oliver Olson                       High Jump         STATE CHAMPION!!

                    Bob Houston                       120 Yd Hurdles  2ND Place
220 Yd Hurdles  2ND Place

                    Paul Poppelreiter               Discus               3RD Place

 

1933-34        Individual Medalist
Bill Hughes                         880 Yard Run     2ND Place

1938-39        Team Finished EIGHTH at IHSA State Meet!!

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Erwin Soukup                     200 Yd Hurdles  2ND Place
Don McAllese                     200 Yd Hurdles   4TH Place

 

1939-40        Individual Medalist

                    Carl Dries                           1 Mile Run          5TH Place

1940-41        Team Finished TENTH at IHSA State Meet!!

                    Individual Medalist

                    Ray Fisher                           Long Jump      STATE CHAMPION!!
High Jump       5TH Place

1941-42        Team Finished SIXTH at IHSA State Meet!!

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Philip Durant                        Discus             2ND Place
Shot Put         2ND Place

1944-45        Team Won District Championship 

 

                    Individual Medalist

                    Tom Callinan                        880 Yard Run  STATE CHAMPION!!

1945-46        Team Won District Championship

                    Individual Medalists

                    Don Brinks                            Discus              3RD Place
Tom Callinan                        880 Yard Run   4TH Place

 

1947-48         Individual Medalist

                     Dudley Hallworth                 880 Yard Run   3RD Place

1948-49         Individual Medalist

                     Bob Scott                             1 Mile Run        5TH Place

1951-52        Team Won District Championship

                    Individual Medalist

                    Lee McMillion                       100 Yd Dash      3RD Place
220 Yd Dash      4TH Place

1952-53         Individual Medalist

                     Dave Radeford                     Shot Put            2ND Place

1959-60         Individual Medalist

                     Rich Taylor                           1 Mile Run        5TH Place

1961-62         Individual Medalists

                     Dave Bartel                           1 Mile Run        4TH Place

                     Jack Hutchinson                    High Jump        5TH Place

1962-63         Individual Medalist

                     Bill Christensen                     Pole Vault         2ND Place

1963-64         Individual Medalist

                     John Wright                          180 Yd Hurdles   STATE CHAMPION!!

                                                                  120 Yd Hurdles   4TH Place

1964-65         Individual Medalist

                     Bruce Ehlers                         220 Yard Dash    4TH Place

As Wheaton Central High School

1965-66         Individual Medalist

                     Steve Fisher                         Long Jump         4TH Place

1970-71         Individual Medalist

                     Floyd Pettaway                     180 Yd Hurdles   4TH Place

1972-73         Individual Medalists

                     Doug Mennis                          Long Jump        2ND Place
Scott Williams                        2 Mile Run         4TH Place

1974-75AA     Individual Medalists

                     Tom Slack                               330 Yd Hurdles  6TH Place
RELAY TEAM                           1 Mile Relay      7TH Place

1976-77AA     Individual Medalists

                     Ted Carlson                             330 Yd Hurdles  4TH Place
Relay Team                             2 Mile Relay      7TH Place
440 Yd Relay     6TH Place

1982-83AA     Individual Medalists

                     Zon Thompson                         High Jump         6TH Place
Scott Shorney                          Long Jump        7TH Place

1983-84AA     Individual Medalists

                     Scott Shorney                          Long Jump       3RD Place
Zon Thompson                         High Jump        8TH Place
RELAY TEAM                            4x100m Relay   7TH Place

1985-86AA     Individual Medalist

                     Skip Sterne                              Pole Vault         7TH Place

GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

The Lady Tigers of Wheaton Central won several individual medals as well.  Their efforts are listed below.

As Wheaton Central High School

1972-73AA     Individual Medalist

                     Debbie Knight                          Discus                5TH Place
Jill Murray                                1 Mile Run         5TH Place

1973-74AA     Individual Medalist

                     Debbie Knight                          Discus                8TH Place

1979-80AA     Individual Medalist

                     Karen Lackland                        400 Meter Dash  4TH Place

1980-81AA     Individual Medalist

                     Karen Lackland                        400 Meter Dash  STATE CHAMPION!!

                                                                      200 Meter Dash   6TH Place

                      RELAY TEAM                            800 Med Relay    7TH Place

1986-87AA     Individual Medalist

                     Tammy Breighner                     3200 Meter Run   4TH Place

1987-88AA     Individual Medalist

                     RELAY TEAM                             4×800 M Relay     7TH Place

1989-90AA     Individual Medalist

                     Michelle King                            400 Meter Dash    6TH Place

 

1990-91AA     Individual Medalists
RELAY TEAM                             4×800 M Relay      5TH Place

1991-92AA     Individual Medalist

                     RELAY TEAM                             4×800 M Relay      2ND Place
Jessica Haremza                       1600 M Run           3RD Place

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

The lady netters of Wheaton Central won three Regional Championships.  Coach’s names and team records are being sought.

As Wheaton Central High School

1988-89          Regional Champions
1990-91          Regional Champions
1992-93          Regional Champions

BOYS WRESTLING

A Second Place Finish in the State Tournament, along with four District Titles and two Regional Titles highlighted the team accomplishments of the Wheaton Central HS grapplers.  In addition 12 individuals won medals for Wheaton and Wheat Central high schools. 

As Wheaton High School

1953-54      Individual Medalist

                  Ted Sanchez          145 Lbs. Weight Class    4TH Place

 

1956-57      Individual Medalist

                  Dick Duncan           145 Lbs Weight Class     4TH Place

As Wheaton Central High School

1964-65      Team Won District Championship

 

1965-66      Team Finished SECOND in IHSA State Meet!!     Coach Ed Ewoldt

                  Team Won District Championship

                  Individual Medalists

                  Steve Buttrey            133 Lbs. Weight Class     2ND Place
Mike Cafferty             112 Lbs. Weight Class     2ND Place

                  Paul Langille            145 Lbs. Weight Class     4TH Place

1969-70       Individual Medalist

                  George Murray          137 Lbs. Weight Class     3RD Place

1972-73       Team Won District Championship


1973-74       Team Won District Championship

1974-75AA   Individual Medalist

                   Ralph McCausland     132 Lbs. Weight Class     4TH Place

1977-78AA   Individual Medalist 

                   Doug Kryder               155 Lbs. Weight Class     4TH Place

 

1979-80AA   Individual Medalist 

                   Dave Tomek               167 Lbs. Weight Class     3RD Place

 

1980-81AA   Individual Medalist

                   Al Sears                      HWT. Weight Class         3RD Place

 

1982-83AA   Individual Medalist 

                   Andre Gordon             HWT. Weight Class         6TH Place

 

1983-84AA   Team Won Regional Championship

 

1986-87AA   Individual Medalist

                   Phil Tomek                 185 Lbs. Weight Class     6TH Place  

1991-92AA   Team Won Regional Championship

                   Individual Medalist

                   Jamie Lee                  189 Lbs. Weight Class     4TH Place

DEBATE

The Wheaton High School Debate Team won a STATE CHAMPIONSHIP in the 1940-41 school year!!!!  More information about this event and the members of the Tiger debate team of 1940-41 is being sought.

As Wheaton High School

1940-41        IHSA STATE CHAMPIONS!!

DRAMA

Wheaton Central’s Drama Team won Sectional Championships in 1970 and 1972, qualifying for the State Finals both years.  The team of 1971-72 placed FIFTH at the State Meet Competition!!

 

As Wheaton Central High School

1969-70        Team Won Sectional Championship

                    Qualified for State Finals Competition


1971-72        Team Finish FIFTH in IHSA State Competition!!

         Team Won Sectional Championship

SPEECH INDIVIDUAL EVENTS

“SAVING THE BEST FOR LAST” certainly holds true here!!  How about this for a resume’ in Speech Individual Events Competition:

4   – STATE CHAMPIONSHIP Teams

3   – Second Place Team Finishes

7   – Sectional Team Titles

8   – Regional Team Titles

9   – District Team Titles 

20 – Top-Ten Team Finishes

25 – Individual GOLD Medals won

95 – Total Individual Medals won

The individual medals and team accomplishments for the students of the Speech Program at Wheaton HS and Wheaton Central HS are listed below.

As Wheaton High School

1941-42     Individual Medalist

                 Carol Carlson          Serious             5TH Place

1963-64     Individual Medalist

                 Steve McMillian       Orat Declam    3RD Place

As Wheaton Central High School

1964-65        Team Finished EIGHTH at State Finals

                    Individual Medalists

                    Steve McMillan     Orat Declam   STATE CHAMPION!
George Eisele       Radio              5TH Place

1965-66        Team Won District Championship  

1966-67        Team Finished SIXTH at State Finals

                    District Champions

                    Individual Medalists
Alan Lowry           After Dinner    2ND Place
Sharon Engel        Prose              3RD Place

1967-68        Team Finished SEVENTH at State Finals

                    District Champions

 

                    Individual Medalist
Michael Rasfeld    Comedy          STATE CHAMPION!

 

1968-69        Team Won STATE CHAMPIONSHIP at State Finals!!

                    District Champions

                    Sectional Champions

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Sharon Engel        Verse              2ND Place
Greg Taylor           Extemp           3RD Place
Scott Wilson          Orat Declam   4TH Place

                    Ron Blome            Radio              5TH Place


1969-70        Team Finished SECOND at State Finals

                    Sectional Champions

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Sharon Engel         Prose             STATE CHAMPION!
Greg Taylor            Extemp          2ND Place
Carol Reed             Serious          5TH Place

1970-71        Team Won District Championship

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Joan Ferguson       Prose             5TH Place
Bettell                    Duet               5TH Place
Willyard                 Duet               5TH Place


1971-72        Team Won District Championship

 

                    Individual Medalists
Becky White           Dram Interp   3RD Place

 

1972-73         Individual Medalist

                    Julie Renaud          Prose             4TH Place

 

1973-74        Team Finished SEVENTH at State Finals

                    District Champions

 

                    Individual Medalist

                    Jim Meza                Orig Comedy   STATE CHAMPION! 

 

1974-75        Team Finished SEVENTH at State Finals

                    District Champions

                    Sectional Champions

 

                    Individual Medalist

                    Teresa Bland          Extemp             3RD Place

 

1975-76        Team Finished TENTH at State Finals

                    District Champions

 

                    Individual Medalist

                    Eric Strom               Verse                STATE CHAMPION!

 

1976-77        Team Finished SECOND at State Finals

                   

                    Individual Medalists

                    Andy Heaton           Extemp              STATE CHAMPION!

                    Sue Young              Humor Interp     STATE CHAMPION!
Diana Williams       Orat Declam       3RD Place
Prose                  5TH Place

 

1977-78        Individual Medalist
Andy Heaton           Extemp               4TH Place
Amy Olson               Verse                 3RD Place

                                                   Orat Declam        6TH Place 

 

1978-79        Team Finished NINTH at State Finals

                   

                    Individual Medalists 

                    Therese Christenson   Verse              STATE CHAMPION!
Sharon Dennis            Radio              5TH Place

 

1979-80         Individual Medalist

                     Frank Krulac              Humor Interp   3RD Place

 

1980-81        Team Finished SIXTH at State Finals

                   

                    Individual Medalists

                    David Filkin                 Orat Declam   STATE CHAMPION!
Andy Foster                 Dram Duet      3RD Place
John Neisler                Dram Duet      3RD Place

 

1981-82        Team Won STATE CHAMPIONSHIP at State Finals!! Coach Joe Gerace

                    District Champions

                    Sectional Champions

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    John Neisler                Dram Duet      STATE CHAMPION!
Humor Duet    STATE CHAMPION!

                    Eric Berg                     Humor Duet    STATE CHAMPION!
Denise Blank               Dram Duet      STATE CHAMPION!
Eric Berg                     Humor Interp   3RD Place

                    Andy Foster                 Prose               3RD Place
Cindy Wilson               Verse               3RD Place

 

1982-83        Team Won STATE CHAMPIONSHIP at State Finals!! Coach Joe Gerace

                    Regional Champions

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Eric Berg                     Dram Duet        STATE CHAMPION!
Humor Interp    STATE CHAMPION!

                    Andy Foster                 Dram Duet        STATE CHAMPION!
Orat Declam      2ND Place

                    David Funck                Humor Duet       3RD Place
Kevin Spengel            Humor Duet       3RD Place

1983-84        Team Finished SIXTH at State Finals   Coach Joe Gerace

                    Regional Champions

                    Sectional Champions

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Kevin Spengel            Humor Duet       3RD Place
Humor Interp     3RD Place
David Funck                Humor Duet       3RD Place
Jay Burghardt             Prose                 4TH Place
Lisa Savegnago          Dram Interp       5TH Place

 

1984-85        Team Finished FOURTH at State Finals   Coach Joe Gerace

                    Regional Champions

                   

                    Individual Medalists

                    Fred Krejka                 Dram Interp       2ND Place                 

                                                        Dram Duet         5TH Place

                    Lisa Savegnago          Humor Interp     4TH Place

                                                        Dram Duet         5TH Place
Janna Lohmolder        Orat Declam      5TH Place

                    Blake Schomas           Special Occ       6TH Place

 

1985-86         Individual Medalist

                    Charlie Jensen             Humor Duet       5TH Place
Jeff Temple                  Humor Duet       5Th Place

1986-87        Team Finished FOURTH at State Finals 

                    Regional Champions

                   

                    Individual Medalists

                    Charlie Jensen             Dram Duet         2ND Place
Verse                3RD Place

                    Jerusha Matsen            Dram Duet         2ND Place

                    Rekha Rao                    Orig Oratory      3RD Place

                    Keith Spengel               Humor Interp    3RD Place

                    Chris Mancini                Humor Duet      5TH Place

                    Sessie Schomas           Humor Duet       5TH Place


1987-88        Team Finished FOURTH at State Finals

                    Regional Champions

                   

                    Individual Medalists

                    Keith Spengel               Orig Comedy    STATE CHAMPION!
Humor Interp    2ND Place

                    Jerusha Matsen             Verse                3RD Place 

                                                          Dram Interp      6TH Place

 

1988-89         Team Finished SECOND at State Finals 

                    Regional Champions

                    Sectional Champions

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Bridgett Kubin               Dram Duet        STATE CHAMPION!
Jerusha Matsen             Dram Duet        STATE CHAMPION!
Beth Woodruff               Verse                STATE CHAMPION!

                    Jerusha Matsen             Dram Interp      3RD Place
Chris Snowbeck            Extemp             5TH Place

 

1989-90        Team Won STATE CHAMPIONSHIP at State Finals!! 

                    Regional Champions

 

                    Individual Medalists 

                    Jerusha Matsen             Dram Duet        STATE CHAMPION!
Prose                STATE CHAMPION!

                    Jen Dede                       Dram Duet        STATE CHAMPION!

                    Dan Ray                         Humor Interp    STATE CHAMPION!

                    Chris Snowbeck             Extemp            STATE CHAMPION!

                    Dan Ray                         Humor Duet      2ND Place

                    Rob Westra                    Humor Duet      2ND Place

                    Josh Hines                     Orig Comedy    4TH Place
Jen Dede                       Dram Interp       5TH Place

1990-91        Individual Medalists

                    Kevin McPhillip              Humor Duet      3RD Place
Suzanne Spinosa           Humor Duet      3RD Place

                    Luke Anderson               Verse                5TH Place

 

1991-92        Team Finished FIFTH at State Finals  

                    Regional Champions

                    Sectional Champions

 

                    Individual Medalists

                    Nathan Wiard                Humor Duet       2ND Place

                    Suzanne Spinosa          Humor Duet       2ND Place

                    Jen Dede                       Dram Duet         3RD Place
Dram Interp       4TH Place
Kevin McKillup              Dram Duet         3RD Place
Theresa Ellis                 Orig Oratory       5TH Place

SPEECH SWEEPSTAKES

As Wheaton Central

1966-67         Team Finished NINTH in State Finals
1968-69         Team Finished FOURTH in State Finals
1969-70         Team Finished THIRD in State Finals

Do You Have ANY Further Information Regaring Wheaton and Wheaton Central High School?

If you do, please contact us via e-mail at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net. You can also mail items to us at:

IHSGD Website

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il.  60631

 



Westfield High School “Eagles”

Westfield High School Building
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Submitted by Ryan D’Arcy
Westfield Public School Building
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Courtesy of Ryan D’Arcy

The History of Westfield High School

Westfield (population 678) is located in lower-eastern Illinois in the far northwestern corner of Clark County.  The town sits about five miles southwest of Charleston.  Illinois Route 49 is the main roadway to and from Westfield.  The Mill Creek flows through the north side of town.  According to the website address of http://genealogytrails.com/ill/clark/communities/westfield.html ,  Westfield was named because of its extreme location in the northwest corner of the county.  The town was platted in 1839 and was officially incorporated in 1875.

Westfield Township High School 1914-17
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Westfield College 1861 – 1914

Education played a major role in Westfield’s early development.  The town was one of a handful of small towns in Illinois that established a college in the 1800s (http://genealogytrails.com/ill/clark/history/college/college.html).  Westfield College (pictured above) served the town from 1861 through 1914.  The building then served as the Westfield High School building from 1914 until it burned down in 1917.

Sharon Karpinski provides the following information about Westfield Academy:

“I’m not sure that Westfield had a four year high school before Westfield Academy, the college, closed around WWI. My great-grandfather and my great-great aunts and uncles attended the academy in the 1880s—and in fact, at all family gatherings for fifty years thereafter fought about who got the highest grades while they were there! My understanding from their commentaries was that “the academy” was actually a combination high school and college, probably two years of high school (called “prep”) and then college.”

The following information was provided by Ryan D’Arcy regarding the history of the Westfield school system:

“The Westfield High School building served as the Westfield Elementary school from 1986-1994. It was then demolished in 1994. The Village of Westfield owns the grounds and gym and operate them as a park. Attached is a picture of the Westfield High School and the Westfield Public School. The first school was operated in a log cabin by Charles Redman in 1831. The schools functioned until the late 19th century as one-room schools until the “graded” system was introduced. The public school served from the 1880s through 1935. It served all grades until the high school separated in 1915 with the closure of the college. The high school took over the college athletic facilities, i.e. track, football field, baseball diamond, tennis courts, and gymnasium. The school was allowed use before, but interscholastic sports didn’t arrive on the scene until the local roads became reliably passable (ca. late 1920s).”

The mid-1980s brought consolidation talks between Westfield High School and its neighbor to the south, Casey High School.  The year was 1986 when the towns agreed to merge their efforts.  The result was the formation of the Casey-Westfield School District.

The high school for Casey-Westfield is located in Casey. For more information on Westfield High School’s history check out http://c-waa.org/History.htm .

Westfield High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                                    late 1800s

Year closed:                                     1986

Consolidated to:                               Casey-Westfield School District

Westfield HS team nickname:            the “Eagles”

Westfield HS team colors:                 Maroon & Gold

School Fight Song:                           “Cheer, Cheer for Old Westfield High”

                                                                         Notre Dame University Fight Song Tune

Westfield High School Gymnasium
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Courtesy of Charleston Journal Gazette

Athletics

Both boys and girls enjoyed athletic competition at Westfield High.  It is a fact the boys competed in basketball. Baseball, track, and possibly football were likely offered as well.  It is probable the girls competed in basketball, volleyball, track, and possibly softball.  Unfortunately the only sport we have information about is the boys basketball team.  We are searching for team records and coach’s names from the athletic history of Westfield High School.

Boys Basketball

The boys basketball team at Westfield High won a total of four District titles and one Regional title.  The four District titles came when the District was the first round of the iHSA playoffs and included the bigger schools as well.  Winning the four titles in seven years as Casey did was quite a run for a small school in that time period.  Coach’s names and records of the better teams are being sought.

1924-25                 District Champions
1926-27                 DIstrict Champions
1929-30                 District Champions
1930-31                 District Champions
1982-83                 Regional Champions

Seeking Your Assistance…

…regarding the many accomplishments of the townspeople and schools system of Westfield.  Sports, we are sure, were just a part of the experience.  We are especially interested in sharing a photo of the old High School building with the readers of this site.  You can e-mail photos and information to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net or you can write to us at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St. 

Chicago, Il.   60631

Westfield High School Class of 1932
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Submitted by Steven A. Williams

Memories

From Steven A. Williams (Regarding the Class of 1932 photo) :

“My father, Jack Williams, is in the front row extreme right. He ran track and played basketball. He later became a doctor in Chicago. He passed away in 2005 at the age of 91.”



Westervelt High School “Reds”

Westervelt High School Gym – 2010
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Photo Courtesy of Dennis Downey
Westervelt HS Gym Building in 2010
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Photo Courtesy of Dennis Downey

The History of Westervelt High School

Westervelt (population approximately 150) is located in south-central Illinois in north-central Shelby County.  Westervelt sits about 20 miles south (and a little east) of Decatur.  Westervelt is located in a true country setting on County Road 1525 East at County Road 1800 North.  Illinois Route 128 passes about 2 miles to the east of town. The town is about five blocks wide and four blocks long.  The Union Pacific Railroad has tracks that pass through Westervelt.  It is likely that the railroad was a major influence in the early development and location of Westervelt.

More research is needed on the history of Westervelt and its former school system.  Our guess is that Westervelt was established in the late 1800s. Gerry Halpin adds this bit of history regarding the town of Westervelt;  “The town is likely named for Dr. L. C. Westervelt, an early Shelby County physician.  There is still a post office and grain elevator in town, also still going strong is the Westervelt Christian Church, a Greek Revival building that was named to the National Register of Historic Places in February 2006.”

A school was likely established at the same time. High school curriculum was probably put in place in the early 1900s. The high school district for Westervelt High was District 189.  This was almost certainly a 2 or 3 year high school.

We believe that Westervelt High School was closed in 1948.  A high school reunion article from 1994 stated that alumni from 1924 through 1948 would be honored. Another article states there was a senior class at Westervelt High School.  It appears that the Westervelt school building continued in use as a grade school for the Shelbyville School District until it was closed in 1975. Westervelt students continue their education in nearby Shelbyville.

Westervelt HS Reunion 1994 Newspaper Article
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Decatur Herald & Review May 29, 1994

As you can tell by the photos taken in 2010 by Dennis Downey, the Westervelt High School building has been razed.  All that remains is the wonderfully constructed gymnasium, still standing majestically in town.

Westervelt High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                              late 1800s / early 1900s

Year closed:                               1948

Consolidated to:                         Shelbyville High School

Westervelt HS team nickname:  “Reds”

Westervelt HS team colors:         Red & White

School Fight Song:                      unavailable

Westervelt High School Gymnasium 2010
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Photo Courtesy of Dennis Downey

Athletics and Extra-Curricular Activities

We are curious if athletics were a part of the Westervelt High School experience.  It is quite possible that basketball and other sports were offered to the boys of Westervelt HIgh School.  If so, we are in need of the school fight song, team colors, and team nickname.  Coach’s names and team records are welcome as well.

Were school plays, dances, field trips, band, chorus, and other extra-curricular activities a part of the Westervelt High School experience too?  If you have any information to share, please contact us via the means below.

To Provide Information On Westervelt and Westervelt High School:

A photo of the former high school building and any information would be greatly appreciated.  E-mail items to us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net .  You can also write to us at:

IHSGD Website

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il.  60631

Westervelt High School Basketball Team 1947-48
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Submitted by Dennis Downey
 



Westchester Immaculate Heart of Mary High School “Tigers”

WESTCHESTER IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY HIGH SCHOOL
Immaculate Heart of Mary High School
A building with trees in front of it

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courtesy of “A History of Offices, Agencies, and Institutions in the Archdiocese of Chicago”

           The History of Westchester Immaculate Heart of Mary High School

Westchester (population 16,824) is located in far northeastern Illinois in west-central Cook County. Westchester is a western suburb of Chicago located about 5 miles west of the Chicago city limits. U.S. Route 12 (Manheim Road) and U.S. 38 (Roosevelt Road) intersect in Westchester. In addition, Interstate Highway 290 is located on the north side of Westchester. The Salt Creek flows through the south side of town. The Soo Line Railroad runs through the east side of Westchester.

The web address of http://www.franzosenbuschheritagesociety.org/Histories/Westchester/Early%20Village%20History.htm#Creation%20and%20Early%20History%20of%20The%20Village, has some excellent history of Proviso Township and the establishment of the city of Westchester. It would appear that Westchester would be one of the newer cities in Illinois, certainly one of the newer cities on this site. Westchester was incorporated in October of 1925 and was chartered in January of 1926.  Village growth went from the mid-300’s in the 1930’s to 620 in 1940. By 1955, Westchester had a population of approximately 11,000!

The population growth saw the need for educational facilities. This eventually led to the creation of an all-boys’ and an all-girls’ catholic high school in Westchester. Immaculate Heart of Mary was established in 1960 and served the young girls of the area for 45 years. The school was in the planning stages when the land was purchased in 1946, but the official announcement did not come until 1959. The Sisters Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IMH) was the order that was in charge of the school when it admitted 314 girls in September 1960 at the boys’ high school nearby, St. Joseph.

The IMH building was not ready until March of 1962, and the first four-year class graduated 285 students in the spring of 1964. Up to 1,400 students were enrolled in the fall of 1965, which was the peak of enrollment for Immaculate Heart of Mary, which also offered exchange and summer programs with St. Joseph during that time.

The school went thru some tough financial times in the late-1960’s and early-1970’s that consolidation talks with St. Joseph were raised in 1971. The two schools were located close to each other. Although it was once one of the premier girls catholic high schools in the entire Chicago area, declining enrollment and a changing economic environment began to take its toll in the early 2000’s. It was finally decided to close the high school after the 2004-05 school year.

An article about the closure can be found at the following web address:

http://schools.archdiocese-chgo.org/news_releases/news_2005/news_012805.shtm

Immaculate Heart of Mary High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                                1960

Year closed:                                 2005

Consolidated to:                            St. Joseph’s High School (Westchester)

IHM team nickname:                      the “Tigers”

IHM team colors:                           Royal Blue & White

School Fight Song:                        “IHM High”

                                                     Provided by Susan Colaire, written by Sr. Patrick Mary

                                                        IHM High

                                                        Lead us ever nigh,

                                                        To goals both high and true,

                                                        For minds trained and friends gained,

                                                        We’re grateful now to you! 

                                                        As the years roll by,

                                                        Our standards high,

                                                        We’ll tell the whole world why

                                                        In our Hall of Fame,

                                                        You’ll find the name of IHM High!

ATHLETICS

The Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) Tigers had some incredible moments in Illinois High School Association girls sports. GIrls basketball led the way for IHM with a STATE CHAMPIONSHIP to their credit in 1986-87. According to the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org) soccer, softball, track, and volleyball were also offered at the school. It is possible other sports were offered as well. School fight song and team records of many of the better teams are needed.

BASKETBALL

Coach Dave Power, a legend in girls basketball in Illinois High School history, spent eleven seasons as the head coach of the Tigers from 1982-83 through 1992-93. After spending his first six seasons at Proviso West, Coach Powers quickly turned the IHM program into one of the premier programs in the state during his tenure there. Lets look at the IHM program and Coach Powers by the numbers:

1  –  STATE CHAMPIONSHIP!   (1986-87)

1  –  THIRD Place Finish!            (1988-89)

2  –  Final 4 Appearances

3  –  Elite 8 Finals Appearances

3  –  Super-Sectional Championships

4  –  Sweet Sixteen Appearances

4  –  Sectional Championships

8  –  Consecutive Regional Titles under Coach Powers (1984-85 through 1991-92)

10 –  Regional Titles Overall (in an 11 year period)

10 – Consecutive Seasons of 20+ Wins

*Coach Power’s Overall Record at IHM  –  261 – 68 (a .793 winning %)

*Coach Power currently ranks #2 All-Time in IHSA history for most overall wins with 639 (and counting)

*Coach Power is the only Class AA coach in IHSA history to:

              Coach two teams to the State Tournament Finals

              Coach two teams to the State Tournament Final Four

              Coach two teams to the State Championship Game

              Win the State Championship with two different teams (IHM and Fenwick)

Nice Job Coach Power and the IHM Tigers of the hardwood court!!

     

Here is a season by season look at the IHM basketball accomplishments:

1982-83   13 – 12                                                                Coach Dave Power

1983-84   21 – 11                                                                Coach Dave Power

1984-85   20 – 7     Regional Champions                            Coach Dave Power


1985-86   25 – 4     Sweet 16 Finalist                                  Coach Dave Power

                            Regional Champions

                            Sectional Champions

                            Super-Sectional Finalist

                            Lost to Lockport 53 – 48

1986-87   32 – 2     IHSA Class AA STATE CHAMPIONS!!    Coach Dave Power

                            Regional Champions

                            Sectional Champions

                            Sweet 16 Finalist

                            Beat Romeoville 57 – 46

                            Elite 8 Finalist

                            Beat Elmhurst York  52 – 41

                            Final 4 Finalist

                            Beat Geneseo 52 – 40

                            STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME Finalist

                            BEAT Metropolis Masaac County  45 – 43!!


1987-88   25 – 4     Regional Champions                            Coach Dave Power

1988-89   30 – 3     IHSA CLASS AA THIRD PLACE!!!          Coach Dave Power

                            Regional Champions

                            Sectional Champions

                            Sweet 16 Finalist

                            Beat Dixon   68 – 49

                            Elite 8 Finalist

                            Beat Jerseyville 84 – 42

                            Final 4 Finalist

Lost to Winnetka New Trier  69 – 56

New Trier finished second

Third Place Game Finalist

                            Beat Moline  68 – 65 (3 O/T)

                            

1989-90   28 – 3     IHSA CLASS AA ELITE 8 FINALIST!      Coach Dave Power

                            Regional Champions

                            Sectional Champions

                            Sweet 16 Finalist

                            Beat Dixon  61 – 54

                            Elite 8 Finalist

                            Lost to Chicago Marshall 53 – 44

Marshall eventual State Champions

1990-91   27 – 4     Regional Champions                            Coach Dave Power
1991-92   20 – 9     Regional Champions                            Coach Dave Power
1992-93   20 – 9     Regional Champions                            Coach Dave Power
1993-94   18 – 11   Regional Champions                            Coach John Ryan
1994-95   18 – 11   Regional Champions                            Coach John Ryan

GREAT PLAYER

*From Bruce Firchau:

Kristen Maskala helped lead IHM to a state title in 1987 and was runner-up to Ms. Illinois Basketball in 1989. Kristen attended Marquette Univ. where she scored 1,745 points and became Marquette’s all time leading scorer.  Her jersey was retired & now hangs in the rafters at Marquette. Kristen was also an Academic All-American at Marquette.”

Kristen Maskala IHM Star, Marquette Leading Scorer
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Submitted by Bruce Firchau
Kristen Maskala – IHM All-State, Marquette Star
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Submitted by Bruce Firchau

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SOCCER

Only one season is recorded on the IHSA website regarding the IHM soccer program. That season happened to be the school’s last.

1995-96   11 – 0 – 1            GCAC Conference Champions!

http://articles.chicagotribune.com/1996-04-26/sports/9604260043_1_public-league-st-rita-mather

2004-05   13 – 6 – 1            Coach Karl Pretzer

______________________________________________________________________

SOFTBALL

Coach Dave Power showed his leadership capabilities on the ball diamond as well. Coach Power led the IHM girls for seven years with no losing records and a 122-71-1 record overall for a .631 winning %. The program won its only Regional title however in 1991-92. The coach’s name of this team is being sought.

1984-85   20-  7                                               Coach David Power

1985-86   13-13                                               Coach David Power

1986-87   14-12                                               Coach David Power

1987-88   15-11                                               Coach David Power

1988-89   17-  8                                               Coach David Power

1989-90   25-  8                                               Coach David Power

1990-91   18-12-1                                            Coach David Power

1991-92                   Regional Champions

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TRACK & FIELD

One Lady Tiger trackster brought home a medal from the IHSA Class AA State Meet!

1978-79      Margot Rogus        High Jump        5TH Place

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VOLLEYBALL

The netters won a title as well, bringing home the Regional Championship hardware in 1994-95! Coach’s name and team record are being sought.

1994-95      Regional Champions

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THEATRE

The Illinois Theatre Festival is the largest, non-competitive high school theatre festival in the world. It was organized in 1976 by teachers from the Chicago suburbs. This festival is still going strong as they perform at the University of Illinois (Champaign-Urbana) and Illinois State University every other January. Immaculate Heart of Mary High school participated in this festival in 1982 and 1992.

_______________________________________________________________________

SEEKING FURTHER INFORMATION

If you have ANY further information you wish to share regarding the Immaculate Heart of Mary Tigers, please write to us so we can share it with others. We know there was a lot more to the school than just sports. A photo ot the high school building is being sought as well. Items can be sent to us at:

Email:   ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net



West York High School

West York School Building
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As Found on the Facebook Page “West York Memories”

The History of West York High School

West York (population 129) is located in upper southeastern Illinois in the southeastern portion of Crawford County, actually on the Clark County/Crawford County line.  County Highway 17 (also known as E. 150th Road) is the main roadway to and from West York, connecting it to Illinois Route 1 just 1/4th mile to the west. West York is about 2 miles west of the Indiana/Illinois border. Effingham is about 50 miles west and a little south of West York.

To this date (April 9, 2012) we have had little success in researching the history of the village of West York and the former West York High School. We believe that West York High School was a 2-year high school that was likely in existence from the early 1920s through the late 1940s.

A Facebook page found at  http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/135390759826292/ tells us that for certain West York hosted a grades 1 – 8 grade school for some time. In the 1950s and 1960s the West York kids would attend grades 1 – 4 in West York and finish with grades 5 – 12 in Hutsonville. The kids of West York today attend all of their classes in Hutsonville.

The West York School building, pictured above, is said to be still standing and used as an apartment building.

West York High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                             1920s?

Year closed:                              1940s?

Consolidated to:                         Hutsonville High School

West York HS Team Nickname:  ??

West York HS Team Colors:       ??

West York HS Fight Song:          ??

ATHLETICS

We believe that West York High School competed in boys basketball.  Baseball and track may have been offered as well.  “Quick Facts” information is needed for the West York High School athletic teams.  Also needed are coach’s names and team records.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Sports were not the only activity at WYHS.  It is probable that school plays, clubs, dances, and many other activities were a part of the well-rounded experience at West York High School.

NEED YOUR ASSISTANCE

If you have any further information regarding the many successes attained at West York High School before its merger with nearby Hutsonville, please write to us via e-mail at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net.   You can also write to us via real mail at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il.  60631


West Union High School “Wildcats”

West Union School
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Courtesy of West Union Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/West-Union-Illinois/11840507151
West Union School & Cafeteria 1970s?
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Courtesy of West Union Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/West-Union-Illinois/1184050715147

The History of West Union High School

West Union (population 288) is located in southeastern Illinois in the southeast corner of Clark County. West Union is situated about 40 miles southeast of Charleston. The town is about five miles west of the Illinois/Indiana border on Illinois Route 1 as it intersects with County Hwy 5. According to www.mapquest.com West Union is approximately six blocks from east to west and five blocks from north to south.

According to the Genealogy web address of http://genealogytrails.com/ill/clark/communities/west_union.html , the town was originally named Union Prairie and later Union Station before becoming West Union. This is currently the extent of the information we have regarding the history of the community.

We believe that West Union once supported a high school of sort when we found the following passage from the same Genealogy web site, at the address of http://genealogytrails.com/ill/clark/news/melrose_1916.html , On this particular page a simple remark was written in the Marshall Herald, Melrose News, on May 3, 1916,

“We under stand the Harry Slusser will teach in the West Union high school term.”

 

The following information was posted on the “West Union, Illinois” Facebook page and was written by the curator. (http://www.facebook.com/pages/West-Union-Illinois/11840507151)

“The first West Union School was an old-wooden one room building in 1901. Harry Drake was the teacher of the small school, A new school was built in 1912, Steve Drake purchased the old school house and moved it a mile east of town. He then made a barn out of what once a school for the small midwest area, The land where the new school was to be built was purchased from Benjamin Poorman in, It was purchased for the amount of 3 hundred dollars by the School Trustees of Township 9 Range 11. Plans were being made to build a new school Ground was broken soon afterward, work began on the two-story school house. The gravel for all the cement work was dug from the basement. The bricks for the building were made at the local tile and brick factory.

Not much is to be found on the exact time it was built or who the architect was. There is also no cornerstone at the West Union School House to check the date when it was built, I have searched libraries, court houses, newspapers, Hutsonville High School, and talked to several individuals to try and find more information about the school. There is no record of the construction of the school house. It is sad because I would liked to have found more information regarding the school’ s history.

The school is located at the east end of Union Street. It is a two-story building with a steam-heating system located in the basement. George Yargus was the first janitor and he was in charge of taking care of the boiler which was fired by coal. It is also the very first bell tower located m West Union. In the early 1920’s they also had a two-year high school. I learned there was high school equivalent exams needed to take to enter high school. The high school is located upstairs in the southeast room. The remaining portion of the upstairs was used for the grade school, there were also class rooms located in the basement, one room was also used for the high school. The two-year high school closed in 1926, but the grade school remained for several years after that.

In those days, the schools didn’t have gymnasiums. True Thompson, a student there in 1922, said they played all of their basketball games above Bill Marvin’s Grocery Store, located on Main Street in West Union. He also said there was a steel post right it in the middle of the room. On one occasion he can remember one of the basketball players running into the steel post. He wasn’t hurl, but sure had a headache. They played several schools but doesn’t remember their record, but he knew they won against the West York Team. Some men started going up there to play basketball, which got a little too noisy and they also knocked down some plaster, so everyone had to quit playing up there. They then had to play their games outside. The School team was the West Union Wildcats and their colors were purple and gold.”

West Union High School Quick Facts

Year opened:                              early 1900s?

Year closed:                               1926

Consolidated to:                          Marshall High School

West Union HS team nickname:   “Wildcats”

West Union HS team colors:        Purple & Gold

School Fight Song:                      unavailable

Athletics

It is possible that West Union High School competed in basketball.  They may have also played softball or baseball and track.  Unfortunately there is no listing of the accomplishments attained by the athletes of the school on the IHSA website (www.ihsa.org) .  If you have this information and would like to share it please follow the directions below.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Did West Union High School support a band or chorus?  Were there school plays, dances, and other activities at the school? Please contact us and let us know.

Seeking Further Information

There were probably several great accomplishments at West Union High School.  If you have this information please e-mail us at ihsgdwebsite@comcast.net.  You can also write to us at:

Illinois HS Glory Days

6439 N. Neva St.

Chicago, Il.  60631

West Union High School Building Early 1940s
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Courtesy of West Union Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/West-Union-Illinois/1184050715147