Stratton High School
Stratton High School stands as one of southern West Virginia's most inspiring stories of education and resilience.
Plan Around Stratton High School
A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.
Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Stratton High School Details
Stratton High School stands as one of southern West Virginia's most inspiring stories of education and resilience. Founded in 1919 as Raleigh County's first all-Black high school, Stratton provided African American students with a place to learn, dream, and thrive during the height of segregation. What began with just two graduates quickly became a thriving institution, moving to its iconic South Fayette Street building in 1939 and serving nearly 2,800 students before its closure in 1967. Stratton wasn't just a school-it was a cultural and social anchor. Its classrooms, sports fields, and community events fostered leadership and pride, helping shape generations of African American educators, professionals, and civic leaders. Teachers at Stratton were more than instructors; they were mentors guiding students through both academic challenges and the complexities of a segregated world. While the high school has since closed, its legacy endures at Stratton Elementary School, which now occupies the historic site. As a stop on the African American Heritage Auto Tour, Stratton invites visitors to reflect on the power of education as a catalyst for change in Appalachia's coalfield communities. Pro tip: Take a quiet moment on the school grounds to imagine the generations of students whose lives were shaped here-and whose influence continues across West Virginia and beyond.
Difficulty
Open
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
N/A
Region
African American Heritage Road Tour
Nearby Parks Around Stratton High School
Compare nearby parks around Stratton High School when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Stratton High School
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Stratton High School while the map context is still fresh.
7.4 mi away
Grandview Picnic Area
Looking for the perfect spot to savor sandwiches and sweeping views? The Grandview Picnic Area is your go-to retreat in New River Gorge & Preserve.
7.4 mi away
Big Buck Trail
Looking for a quick but scenic escape into nature? The Big Buck Trail is the perfect answer.
7.4 mi away
Woodland Loop Trail
Sometimes, the best hikes are the short ones that offer a peaceful escape into nature.
7.5 mi away
Little Laurel Trail
Little Laurel Trail is a 2.6 miles/4.18 km (One-way) located within New River Gorge & Preserve, connecting to the more rugged Kaymoor Trail.
7.5 mi away
Grandview Visitor Center
The Grandview Visitor Center isn't just a scenic stop-it's your gateway to some of the most breathtaking views and outdoor experiences in New River Gorge and Preserve.
