Jaime Vaughn

Located in the rolling hills of Clay County, Tennessee, the Free Hills Rosenwald School stands as a powerful symbol of African American resilience, community, and the pursuit of education in the segregated South. Located in the historic Free Hill community—one of the few African American settlements established before the Civil War—the school is a rare and treasured landmark on Tennessee’s African American Heritage Trail.

Free Hills was founded in the early 19th century by Virginia Hill, a wealthy North Carolina planter’s daughter who freed her enslaved people and granted them 2,000 acres of land in the hills of what is now Clay County. This act of liberation laid the foundation for a self-sustaining Black community that would endure for generations. By the early 20th century, the community had grown to include churches, businesses, and a strong commitment to education.

Building a School, Building a Future

In 1929, the residents of Free Hills partnered with the Julius Rosenwald Fund—a philanthropic initiative led by Sears, Roebuck & Co. president Julius Rosenwald and educator Booker T. Washington—to construct a school for Black children. Local families donated land and raised $200, while the Rosenwald Fund contributed $500, and public funds added $1,775 to complete the project. The school opened in 1930, serving grades K–8 until its closure in 1966 following desegregation.

The school’s design followed Rosenwald’s architectural standards, emphasizing natural light, ventilation, and multipurpose space. It included classrooms for industrial training and home economics, reflecting the era’s emphasis on vocational education for African American students. Beyond academics, the school became a vital community hub, hosting meetings, performances, and civic events.

A Historic Preservation Success Story

After decades of wear, the Free Hills Rosenwald School was recognized for its historical significance and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. In 2012, a major renovation led by the Free Hills Community Club restored the building’s original character while updating it for modern use. Today, it serves as the Free Hills Community Center, continuing its legacy as a place of gathering, learning, and pride.

Visit and Experience the Heritage

Visitors can explore the Free Hill Rosenwald School at 1440 Free Hill Road in Celina, Tennessee. As one of only about 30 Rosenwald schools still standing in the state, it offers a unique glimpse into the educational and cultural history of African Americans in rural Tennessee. The school is also featured on the Tennessee Trails and Byways “Ring of Fire” route, making it a meaningful stop for heritage travelers.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, educator, or traveler seeking a deeper understanding of Tennessee’s diverse past, the Free Hills Rosenwald School invites you to connect with a story of hope, determination, and community spirit that continues to inspire.

Hear more of the community’s story with News Channel 5.