The State Review Board met Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, to examine 11 Tennessee properties as proposed nominations to the National Register of Historic Places, including Chester County Training School, in Henderson.
“Chester County Training School was nominated for local significance in education and African American ethnic heritage,” according to Rebecca Schmitt, Tennessee Historical Commission. The building, which was later known as Vincent High School, was built in 1950 and expanded in 1963. The property continues to be utilized as the Chester County Alternative School and home to the Chester County soccer field and field house.
“This was the only public high school available for African American children during segregation,” Schmitt said. The nomination was submitted by the late Dr. Elizabeth Saunders. Schmitt read a statement from local historical representative Ethel Croom.
A portion of Croom’s statement read, “Elizabeth Saunders was the head committee member, when told about the school would possibly be demolished, she began the process of trying to save it. She was a student there first grade through 12th grade. Her parents were educators there. She graduated first in her class. She stayed in close contact with the historical society,” Croom continued, “working on the national register while going through chemotherapy…She was very dedicated to her goal to achieve the listing on this school…She was a trailblazer in her own right,” Croom added, speaking of Saunders’ own triumphs in education.
The committee expressed gratitude for the nomination and desire to recognize the contributions of Chester County Training School, noting schools are often overlooked for their significance.
“Since Dr. Saunders passed away, we’re going to finish it up for her,” Schmitt affirmed.
With State Review Board approval, the application moves forward to the National Historic Registry for final approval.
View the meeting at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PybvuI5wC0
