Historical marker recognizes century of Black education at Dunbar Primary School

LUFKIN, Texas (KTRE) – A Texas Historical Marker has been dedicated at Lufkin ISD’s Dunbar Primary School, recognizing more than a century of history at a campus that has served the city’s African American community since 1923.

Alumni, educators and community members gathered at the school, located at 300 East Lufkin Avenue, in January for the marker unveiling.

Dunbar High School first opened its doors in 1923 with an all-African American staff, serving Lufkin’s African American community. With Lufkin ISD’s integration in 1971, Dunbar High School was converted to Dunbar Intermediate.

Dunbar Primary School in Lufkin.(Mark Scirto/KLTV)

Lufkin Mayor Mark Hicks said the dedication was a proud moment for the city.

“It’s also unique to the history of this school. I mean, if you really think about it, it’s pretty amazing. Maybe one day they’ll make a movie about the state championship,” Hicks said.

Inside the building, the Dunbar Hall of Honor serves as a museum dedicated to preserving the school’s legacy. The museum features memorabilia honoring alumni, athletes and coaches from the era before school integration, including photographs, letterman jackets, trophies and senior class posters.

The Hall of Honor also recognizes the achievements of Dunbar alumni.

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