The Jacksonville High School Class of 1949 will celebrate its 60th anniversary of graduation on May 27, 2009 at King’s Wok in Jacksonville from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The Class of ’49 graduated sixty years ago in the old Jacksonville High School auditorium on Neches Street on May 27, 1949. At the time it graduated, it was the largest class in the history of Jacksonville High School. One hundred and thirteen graduated and it is estimated that there are well over 75 who are still alive and kicking.
The graduates were born during the Great Depression and grew up in Jacksonville during World War II and the early post war era. Most of them were just sixteen or seventeen years old at graduation since they skipped one grade as the Texas educational system changed from an eleven grade system to the current K through 12 grade system.
Many graduates fought in the Korean or Viet Nam war, and helped transform the country into the greatest economic system the world has seen. They became teachers, professors, coaches, housewives, soldiers, postmen, farmers, engineers, medical doctors, preachers, real estate agents, bankers, retailers and were basically good, hardworking men and women who raised their children to become good solid citizens.
Some of the graduates living in Jacksonville include: Edgar Allen, Earl Allen, Rose Allen Wheat, Bobby Bass, Billy Burns, Melba Cooper Ballard Darrow, Jean Gould, Edward Lovelady, Shirley McGaughey Burgess, Margaret Reagan, Carol Schultz Staton, Barbara Simpson Riley, Bernice Stover Lovelady, Betty Ruth Barber Berry, Betty Bolton Loftin, Eva Jack Cary Cecil and Max Ray McKnight.
It is believed that there are three teachers who taught this great class at JHS: Coach Bill Ingram of Jacksonville and Mr. and Mrs. James Everettt of Austin.
One final note: this class had a great time growing up in Jacksonville, going to school, playing sports and being in the band. It, however, put a lasting mark on future Jacksonville High School students. Their parents planned and worked to fund a senior trip to New Orleans. We had such a great time that supposedly the School Board banned future senior trips even to this day.
For further information on this great reunion, please contact Melba Darrow at 903-589-8132 or Max Odom at 903-677-8602.
