preservation efforts. Recent renovations include new flooring in the gymnasium, cafeteria, and classrooms, replacement of the HVAC system over the cafeteria and classrooms, new signage and building letters, painting, locker room upgrades, lighting, plumbing repairs, and roofing restoration—all contributing to the long-term sustainability of the building as a vital community resource.
“We are delighted in reaching our goal of Edgewood School being added to South Carolina historic buildings and places,” said Sarah Louise Hill-Foster, President of the Edgewood School Alumni Association and a proud member of the Class of 1968. “This is a testament of our love for our school, Edgewood. Also, our dedication and teamwork. We are ecstatic about the unveiling of these two markers. We are forever Panthers.”
The newly installed State Historical Marker reads in part: “This brick campus opened in 1956 as Edgewood School. Part of Ninety-Six
School District, Edgewood served local African American students in grades 1–12. It replaced the wood frame Ninety-Six Colored School on Main Street…”
The full inscription traces the school’s establishment, its architectural significance, its connection to the South Carolina State Equalization Program—which aimed to bolster Black schools while preserving segregation—and the leadership of educators who inspired generations. Of special note is Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, a Greenwood County native and revered civil rights leader, who spoke at the school’s original dedication.
Edgewood School ceased operating as a high school in 1970, coinciding with the integration of the local school district. It later served as a middle school and now functions as a community center, continuing its mission as a hub for education and civic engagement.
“We are happy to be a part of this wonderful process and will continue the legacy moving forward,” said James Hamphill, CEO of the Edgewood Community Center.
Essie Perkins, a former second-grade teacher, reflected: “Receiving a State and National Register marker is a great accomplishment for keeping Edgewood School’s history alive.”
Attendees reflected on the building’s historical and emotional importance, many recalling memories of their school years within its walls. The markers now stand as permanent reminders of the community’s resilience and the critical role Edgewood played in the fight for educational equity.
Preservation and project management were led by the Brookland-Lakeview Empowerment Center’s Community Development Institute, directed by Dr. Cindye Richburg Cotton. For more information, contact Dr. Cotton at (803) 747-3519 or by email at crichburgcotton@brookland.cc
