1079 - Douglass School

The Douglass School and the Dunbar School are two iconic institutions that shaped the African American community in Lawton, Oklahoma. Recognized for their historical significance, both schools hold a cherished place in the hearts of many throughout Lawton, and beyond, and are recognized for their historical significance on the National Register of Historic Places.

Douglass School, named after renowned abolitionist Frederick Douglass, was founded in 1907. The school symbolized the community’s determination to provide quality education for African American students. The original one-room school, Vernon School, was located on First and Gore Boulevard. Douglass School, built to replace the one-room school, was originally built as a ten-room school. However, the school expanded over the years serving as a representation of the ongoing importance of the sanctuary it became for so many students during the eras of segregation. Douglass School closed as an all-black school at the end of the 1965/66 school year. Today, the buildings are used as the Douglass Learning Center for Lawton Public Schools with the east building serving as the Albert Johnson Sr. Conference Center honoring the memory of the school’s last principal.

Similarly, the Dunbar School located on 18th Street and Roosevelt, served as an African American elementary school in the Lawton View neighborhood. The school was originally a two-room building, but burned down in 1937. It was then replaced with a stronger and larger four room building. The school was renamed to honor poet Paul Laurence Dunbar in 1937.

Both the Douglass and Dunbar schools offered a strict, dedicated faculty committed to nurturing the intellectual, artistic, and athletic talents of its students, and fostered a sense of pride and achievement within the community.

Both schools faced numerous challenges as they sought to provide equal opportunities amidst a segregated society. Despite the adversity, the Douglass and Dunbar Schools played a pivotal role in fostering cultural enrichment from dynamic music programs and theatrical productions to vibrant literary societies and sports teams. Through these hallways, students embraced their heritage, creativity, and potential.

Today, visitors can walk the halls of the beautifully preserved buildings of Douglass and gain insight into the struggle, triumph, and resilience of the African American community in Lawton. The impact of the Douglass and Dunbar Schools extends far beyond their walls as the education and values empowered generations to pursue their dreams. We celebrate the achievements of these institutions, the sacrifices made, and a future that embraces equality, unity, and educational opportunities for all.