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Source Collection
Laurence B. Gardiner collection, Special Collections Department, University Libraries, University of Memphis
Identifier
sc.0167.01_02.019
Description
Higbee School, Memphis, Tennessee, 1911. The young women students are possibly participating in a maypole ceremony or midsummer celebration.
The Higbee School was established in 1875 in Memphis, Tennessee and originally called the Presbyterian Grammar and High School, with Miss Jennie M. Higbee, principal. In 1879 the name was changed to "Miss Higbee's High School," and in 1882 to "The Higbee School."
The Higbee School was located at the intersection of Beale and Lauderdale. The building was a three-story brick with seventeen rooms devoted to study and recitation. The grounds were beautifully shaded with oaks, elms, and magnolias. Besides the common branches of an English education, the course of study included the higher English branches, natural sciences, literature, ancient and modern languages, music, phonography, painting, and wood carving. The Higbee School quickly became one of the South's leading educational institutions for young women.
Jenny Higbee passed away in 1903 and the school continued on until 1910. The Memphis Trades and Labor Council purchased the property in 1921 and remodeled the building for their headquarters. In 1972 the old building was demolished. There is a memorial to Miss Higbee in Overton Park and Higbee Avenue is named for her.
Date Created
2022
Date
1919
Recommended Citation
"The Higbee School, Memphis, Tennessee, 1911" (2022). Images. 20.
https://digitalcommons.memphis.edu/speccoll-mss-gardinerlb1/20
Keywords
Higbee, Jennie M.; Education--1910-1940.; Photography.
Rights Statement
Archival Statement
This item was created or digitized prior to April 24, 2026, or is a reproduction of legacy media created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. This material is part of a digital archival collection and is not utilized for current University instruction, programs, or active public communication. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the University Libraries provides accessible versions of archival materials upon request. To request an accommodation for this item, please submit an accessibility request form.
