LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala — Trinity was school for the children of former slaves was established on the old Richardson property in 1865 through the efforts of a white woman named Mary Wells. It burned in 1907 and was rebuilt west of Athens on an old Civil War fort site. Now, it's the site of Trinity Summer Fun Fest.
Trinity was the only all-black junior high and high school in Limestone County until integration in 1970. Athens Mayor Youth Commission member Chloe Malone believes this site is so much more than just a building. "I think it holds so much significance, especially here in Athens, as a big historic place. It's not just a random building that they can pass when they're going down the street. And I think it holds so much significance.
And that significance is exactly why ALCA board member Jackie Warner says Trinity Fun Fest transpired, to teach students about that rich legacy and history. "We're on the grounds of where Fort Henderson was. And so, we're very excited to talk to the kids, give them a chance to do some on site activities. They're going to do tours. They're also going to do some steam activities. So just an exciting opportunity for us to have our students learn about the history."
Warner says hosting Summer Fun Fest is all about truly keeping the legacy alive for future generations. "When students come on site here or when they pass by, they really understand what was here, what the significance is of Trinity High School still today, no longer on site, but the history and the legacy. So that's why we're doing this. We want to make sure that our kids have fun this summer, but we also want to make sure they're learning."