Memories of times shared at Oakland came alive as students past and present, along with faculty spoke to a crowd gathered for the Commemorative service for the 144 year old school.FYN had an opportunity to speak to Principals and other faculty members after the service. See Videos

FYN speak with Mr. Parmer (former principal) from Fetch on Vimeo.

Oakland’s former Principal Dr. Cantrell from Fetch on Vimeo.

FYN speaks with Ms. Crawford & Ms. Mooney from Fetch on Vimeo.

Oakland says “We love you Ms. Jenny” from Fetch on Vimeo.

Oakland Principal, Greg Burrell from Fetch on Vimeo.

Oakland’s History
•Oakland Elementary School was founded as Oakland Academy in 1867.
•First of the mission-type schools in modern Gilmer County.
•Founded by John H. Robeson, Nathan T. Tabor and others.
•It was originally founded as a teaching academy.
•First graduating teacher was W. D. Kirkland of South Carolina.
•It was deeded to the M.E. Church, South in 1895.
•A new building was begun in July of 1897 and was much larger than the original building.
•The new building opened January 3, 1898 and offered “high school, academic, classic, and normal courses”.
•In 1904 Oakland renewed a library fund. This was the beginning of the school’s library facilities.
•Enrollment in 1915 was 168 students. As of this date the school offered both elementary and high school courses.
•In 1929 while plans were being drawn up to build a new modern building the school burned.
•The insurance proceeds and six acres was then donated toward the building of a new school.
•It was at this point the school became totally public.
•The school was rebuilt in 1930.
•George W. Petttit was the first principal of the new school.
•This school also burned on January 3, 1940.
•With insurance, federal aid and local funds the school was once again rebuilt.
•This building also burned in November of 1955. It was once again rebuilt and this new building is still in use.

FYN will be following up with additional coverage on Oakland School including Oakland Graduation.