‘Parallel Lives’ highlights history of Central High and Second Ward High Schools

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Old photos of the two high schools and various photos of the students playing sports and gathering.

The Central Piedmont Archives is proud to announce the opening of the exhibition: “Parallel Lives – Central High and Second Ward High School.” This exhibition highlights the centennial history of Central High and Second Ward High Schools (both opened in 1923), celebrates the memories of its students and alumni groups, and raises awareness about the importance of historical preservation and landmarks laws in North Carolina.

Central High School and Second Ward High School were built to fulfill the growing educational needs of Charlotte students in the early twentieth century; Second Ward High School serving Black students and Central High School serving White students. It was not until 1957 that Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools would integrate Black and White students. With Central High situated along Elizabeth Avenue and Second Ward along Alexander Street, the schools were within walking distance from one another. However, students shared similar, yet separate, experiences due to segregation.

Exactly 100 years after the construction of these buildings, Central High’s facility remains standing as part of the Central Campus of Central Piedmont Community College, while the Second Ward gymnasium and a historical marker plaque are all that remain of Second Ward High School— physical reminders which serve as testaments to the importance of landmarks preservation.

Visitors can see this exhibition in person until May 8, 2023 by visiting the exhibition hallway next to the Central Piedmont Archives (Central Campus, Parr Center, Hagemeyer Library, Third Floor).

Can’t make it in person? Review the exhibition online.

The exhibit was made possible due to partners from Johnson C. Smith University, UNC Charlotte, the Second Ward High School National Alumni Foundation, and the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room. Additionally, thank you to Central Piedmont Instructor of Real Estate Education Cynthia White Williams, her mother Vernie Johnson-White, and her father Randolph White for loaning Second Ward yearbooks to this exhibition project.