Dream of a school born from sand dunes. That’s George Washington High School. Today we stand before a San Francisco landmark. This school is more than just brick and mortar. It embodies the vision of early San Franciscans.
Back in 1861, this land was a rock quarry. Imagine cable cars pulled by horses. Think of gold strikes and clipper ships. Even then, city leaders set aside land for a school here at 32nd Avenue and Anza Street.
Fast forward 75 years. In 1936, George Washington High School arose. It cost about $2 million. The federal government helped fund it. This was during the Great Depression.
The school’s location has deep roots. In 1861, a portion was designated for education. The Board of Education bought the rest in 1925. This foresight shows how important education was to early San Francisco. The groundbreaking took place in 1934.
George Washington High School had ambitious plans. They included a main building and shops. There would be an auditorium and gymnasiums for both boys and girls. The plans included a football field and tennis courts. A music conservatory, baseball field, running track and swimming pool completed the vision.
Timothy L. Pflueger designed George Washington High School. He was a famous architect. He worked on the Bay Bridge. Pflueger also contributed to the Golden Gate International Exposition of 1939. His designs shaped San Francisco. Before Washington, he designed Alamo and Jefferson grammar schools. He also designed Roosevelt Junior High School. Later, he designed Lincoln High School. Pflueger also worked on the Science building at San Francisco Junior College.
Inside George Washington High School, art tells stories. Victor Arnautoff painted murals here. They depict the life of George Washington. These murals sparked debate. They show slaves and Native Americans.
The murals intended to teach about history. They sparked controversy. Some found them offensive. The school board once voted to remove them. But, the decision was later reversed. Now, these murals remain. They prompt important conversations about history.
George Washington High School boasts many facilities. There are computer labs. A theater provides space for performances. The library offers a quiet place to study. Athletic facilities abound. A gymnasium stands ready for games. Outside, there’s a football field and tennis courts.
Many notable people walked these halls. Maya Angelou is an alumna. Danny Glover also attended George Washington High School. Johnny Mathis honed his talent here. Lee Meriwether, a Miss America, is also an alumni. These graduates have made their mark on the world.
George Washington High School stands tall. It is a place of learning. It is a place of history. It is a place of debate. It reflects San Francisco’s past and present. As you leave today, remember the layers of history within these walls.