Opened in 1973 on Mesa Drive stands Anderson High School. But the story of Anderson High School begins long before that. The original L.C. Anderson High School served Austin’s African American community from 1889 to 1971. It stood as a beacon of excellence for over 80 years.
That original school faced many challenges. Segregation meant unequal funding and resources. Yet, it thrived as a center for academics, arts, and athletics. The original L.C. Anderson High School was first located at San Marcos St and East 11th St. It then moved to Olive St, followed by Pennsylvania Ave and Comal St. Finally, it resided on Thompson St.
The Yellow Jackets of the original Anderson High won several PVIL Football State Championships. These wins occurred in 1942, 1956, 1957 and 1961. Names like Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson and Dick “Night Train” Lane once walked its halls. Willie Wells the baseball player and Dr. W. Charles Akins are also counted as notable alumni.
Desegregation efforts in 1971 led to the closure of the original Anderson High School. This closure deeply impacted Austin’s Black community. To achieve integration, the students were bused to other schools. The new L.C. Anderson High School opened in 1973 at its current location on Mesa Drive. It was named for Laurine Cecil L.C. Anderson. He served as principal of Prairie View Normal Institute. He also founded the Colored Teachers State Association of Texas CTSAT. L.C. Anderson served as principal of the original Anderson from 1896 to 1929.
Today, Anderson High School continues to pursue excellence. Anderson High School offers a comprehensive education to its students. The school’s mascot is the Trojan. Its colors are blue and gold. Anderson High School’s rival is McCallum High School.
Anderson High School has seen success in extracurricular activities. The school has secured state titles in Boys’ and Girls’ Golf. They also won in Boys’ and Girls’ Swimming & Diving.
Anderson High School boasts a diverse group of notable alumni. This includes actor Mehcad Jason McKinley Brooks. Radio host Alex Jones also attended Anderson. Ron Nirenberg, the mayor of San Antonio, is an alumnus.
Anderson High School stands as a testament to Austin’s complex history. It represents both the challenges of segregation and the ongoing pursuit of equality. As we stand here, remember the legacy of the original L.C. Anderson High School. Consider also the promise of the Anderson High School of today.