Class of 1891

Pictured above was the first graduating class of Kortrecht High School, Class of 1891. Rebecca E. Driver, Fannie B. Turner, Gueiler D. Miller, Sarah E. Martin, and Katie L. Merriwether. Photographed by Tennessee's first black professional photographer, James P. Newton.

Kortrecht, the first brick building built for African American students, would eventually become Booker T. Washington High School. G. P. Hamilton was the first principal there and first principal of Booker T. Washington High School. Hamilton wrote "The Bright Side of Memphis" in 1908, spotlighting black Memphians who had made significant contributions to the city. Hamilton Elementary School, Hamilton Junior High, and Hamilton High are named in his honor.

Sources: Memphis Public Library