Cedar Rapids’ first permanent school once stood along the 4th Avenue end of Greene Square. From 1855-1868, it educated students through eighth grade. High school-level programs—considered advanced education until the twentieth century—were added in 1869. A large stone building, now exclusively a high school, replaced the older brick schoolhouse in 1891 and was renamed Washington in 1915. Revered educator Abbie Abbott was Washington’s principal from 1886-1921. The school closed in 1935, standing vacant until demolition in 1946. It was replaced with a parking lot and an American Legion building (demolished 2012). Washington High School reopened at 2205 Forest Drive SE in 1957. A new Cedar Rapids Public Library (built 2012-2013) continues the area’s educational tradition.
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Download this plaque (PDF format)
