Trojan Alumni Association reunites to celebrate 33rd Avenue High School in Gulfport
Today in Gulfport, the Trojan Alumni Association came together to celebrate the 33rd Avenue High School’s 10th reunion.
Even though the reunion takes place all weekend, the main attraction was the former public school, which opened in 1925 for African-Americans until integration took place in 1969.
Two charter buses were filled with over 100 former Trojans that wore nothing but gold and green colors. They were brought to what appeared to be their old stomping ground. Class of ‘64 Claudette Woulard was singing, reminiscing, and catching up with former classmates she had not seen in years. “Everybody singing and enjoying this. It’s a very, very rewarding day for us.”
The old high school is under construction to become a job corps site after damage from Hurricane Katrina. The historical significance of the building still lives on for the former students here.
Nothing but good memories was shared today as alumni from 33rd Avenue High School were reunited, but for others it became really emotional. Class of ’64 Brenda Lawrence Matthews said, “I miss all the caring teachers. I miss the building being here. We had some excellent teachers. They cared about us. They cared about the community. They cared about their students.”
Each graduate stood proud. The school was a big contributor to their heritage and even though the school is gone, they will never forget it. “Our children, our great grandchildren, our great-great grandchildren will know that 33rd Avenue High School put their mark here. Right here on this corner.”
They want to see the Department of Labor use the original structure as much as possible for the sake of the landmark’s history.
