Reunion brings original Lincoln classmates together for 60th anniversary celebration
Photo submitted
By Mary White Allen
Special to the Outlook
Fifty-two members of the original Lincoln High School class of 1963 celebrated their 60th class reunion last weekend. It marked the 11th time that the class has held a reunion.
In 1959, the class entered Lincoln High School as freshmen. Four years later in 1963, they graduated and started their new lives.
While at Lincoln, they created a bond that hasn’t been broken. When the city closed the school and gave its name to another school at a different location in Tallahassee after integration, this class and other graduates knew they had to preserve their memories.
Many in Tallahassee have no knowledge of the original Lincoln High School in Tallahassee because the continuity between the two schools was never valued nor established and pursued.
This 60th year class reunion celebration began last Thursday with a welcome by Mayor John Dailey and Leon County School Board member Darryl Jones. The following day, the class experienced a mini-tour of African-American contributions to Tallahassee and the nation.
The tour culminated with a visit to the Jack Hadley Black History Museum in Thomasville, Ga. While there, the class was treated to a luncheon by classmate Alwillie Flowers Speight.
A banquet was held at the Holiday Inn on the third day, with a welcome message delivered by County Commissioner Bill Proctor. Special guest was Ms. Anita Abrams, a former English teacher at the old Lincoln School. The reunion ended with worship service at a local church, followed by a farewell lunch.
Many in the class spent the weekend reminiscing about the “good old days” at Lincoln High School. At the same time, they made new memories.
The next reunion is planned for 2028.
Mary White Allen is chairperson of the Class Reunion Planning Committee.
