Essex High School - Odyssey Yearbook (Tappahannock, VA)

Text from Pages 1 - 76 of the 1956 volume:

PRESENTED iB the senior class sex County High School Tappahannock, Virginia many memo table occasions • the couise durmg of a fond, chenshe i®e®on“ ' - ittemoties- that v e school y®at.- ,uld woi . over and over again, and relive of the hone that this edition „ is o� - ,our iovable ° lives. vjays be a sym bol of the most enjoy dCnta Mxite c Oh Essex brave, dear Essex true, With earnest hearts we pledge to you Our pride, our love, our loyalty Through endless day and to destiny. Chorus- - Oh Essex grave, dear Essex free Oh Essex is the place for me When it is time for me to die Just bring me here and let me lie. We know you can never fail us And we shall never fail you For you we sing Oh Essex true We had great victory always for you. In you alone we have our trust And hope you will have the same in us For you we live Oh Essex too; We will always be witness for you. PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE Penrose B. Parks As we approach the end of the school year, I would like to express my thanks to the faculty, students, and patrons who have worked to make this year a suc- cessful one --thanks for a job well done. As we retrogress a bit we see our school small, not accredited, our extra- curricular activities nil in comparison to other schools, and our students no; interested in college. Today we have made progress to correct some of these evils. Our school is accredited, our extra-curricular activities are on par with other schools, and our graduates are competing successfully at the larger institu- tions in our state and other states. We are proud of our schwl, long may it stand as a monument to those who have a desire to learn. May its doors be opened to all who are interested in education. As our graduates pass from these halls, we hope that they have been filled with a desire to continue upward to higher goals. Mrs. M. B. Poles B. S. , Va. State College English Mr. R. H. Vaughan M. A. , North Carolina College Social Science Miss M. R. Davis A. B. , Va. State College Librarian Sxncuitlf Mr. A. R. Bowens B. S. , A. and T. College General Science Mrs. L. T. Brown B. S. , Va. State College Home Economics Mr. W. R. Henderson A. B. , Va. Union University Mathematics French Mrs. M. G. Bayton Mr. F. P. Holmes Mrs. Z. C. Jackson M. A. , Columbia B.S., Va. State College B. S. , Va. State University Agriculture College Athletics Sixth Grade Sixth Grade S xicuitif Mrs. E. B. Booker B. S. , Va. State College Fifth Grade Mr. T. H. Epps B.S. , Hampton Institute Seventh Grade Miss V. V. Waugh B. S. , Va. State College % Third Grade | Mrs. E. Y. Stevens B. S. . Va. State College Third Grade Mr. W. B. Gresham A. B. , Va. State College Athletics Fourth Grade Mrs. J. R. Burton B. S. , Va. State College Second Grade S-xicuUif Mrs. F. H. Johnson A . B. . Va. Seminary Music Second Grade Mrs. E. L. Harris B.S. , Hampton Institute First Grade Miss M. E. Saunders Ed. M. , Temple University First Grade ORDS SENIORS Class Officers President- - “-“ •“ -------- ••-----Allen Wormley Vice president--------------“------ -Ann Jones Secretary-- -------------------- ---Gloria Smith Assistant Secretary-- -------”--------Mary Hill Treasurer-------------------------- Ruby Muse Business Manager----------------- Laura Morris Chm. ofProg. Comm. -----------Pauline Wilson Parliamentarian - Grace Johnson Student Council-- — -- -------- --- Barbara Taylor Sgt. at Arms ----------------------- Harold Byrd CLASS MOTTO Labor conquers all things. CLASS COLORS Lilac and Lime CLASS FLOWER Red Rose Betty Mae Beale Favorites: Saying - You know it too Subject -Chemistry Pastime -Playing piano John Blagmon Favorites: Saying - Close enough Subject -English Pastime-Thinking things over Barbara Blagmon Favorites: Saying - If you can’t dig me don’t Subject -English Pastime -Dancing Dorothy Bundy Favorites: Saying - Yes man Subject -Government Pastime -Drawing Mary Hill Favorites: Saying - Lawd, Lawd Subject -Government Pastime -Joking Harold Byrd Favorites: Saying - Oh! Boy Subject -Government Pastime -Reading Rosetta Cauthorne Favorites: Saying-’’ Gosh Subject -English Pastime -Reading Sarah Cauthorne Favorites: Saying-’ ' Forget about it Subject -English Pastime -Music Ann Jones Favorites: Saying - Darn Tooting Subject -Government Pastime -Rea ding Mae Pearl Lee Favorites: Saying “’’Excuse me for excusing you Subject -Government Pastime -Dancing Grace Johnson Favorites: Saying - Forget about it” Subject -Home Economics Pastime -Reading James Gray Favorites: Saying - Hey, Now Subject -Government Pastime -Daydreaming A I Laura Morris Favorites: f Saying - Keep cool a you ' re wasted” S Subject-Mathematics ; Pastime -Reading | Grace Muse ; Favorites: j Saying - Don ' t worry about it Subject -Government Pastime -Dancing Ruby Muse Favorites: Saying - Man, I’m telling you Subject -English Pastime -Dancing James Jackson Favorites: Saying - Forget yourself Subject -Government Pastime -Singing Anna Pratt Favorites: Saying - That’s my business Subject -Government Pastime -Dancing Katherine Ruffin Favorites: Saying - Gee Whiz Subject -Government Pastime -Dancing I Gloria Smith Favorites: Saying - You know me Subject -Home Economics Pastime -Dancing Barbara Peterson Favorites: Saying - Get Lost Subject -Government Pastime -Joking Lloyd Johnson Favorites: Saying - A 11 by Myself” Subject -Chemistry Pastime -Reading Arnetta Taylor Favorites: Saying - Don’t worry about it Subject -English Pastime -Singing Barbara Taylor Favorites: Saying - Make me know it Subject -Government Pastime -Gossip ing Harry Lee Favorites: Saying- ! don’t know Subject -Government Pastime -Just Loafing Pauline Wilson Favorites: Saying- Chilly Chill Subject -Government Pastime -Singing James Smith Favorites: Saying - You heard me Subject -Government Pastime -Riding around Beatrice Wright Favorites: Saying - You got the best of me, Man Subject -Government Pastime -Dancing Allen Worm ley Favorites: Saying “ Feel so good Subject -Government Pastime -Riding around How wonderful and entrancing seems that day when we first launched our new ship on the waters of ECHS ! That day appeared to us as the most exciting and interesting day of all. Our hearts swelled with pride as we stepped over the threshold of the hall of ECHS and opened a new chapter in our field of education. It was on the sixth day of September, 1952, that ECHS- -the Old Ironsides of Edu- cation, flung open her doors for us to enter. How eager and anxious we were as we began our crusade for high school knowledge. Our joys knew no bounds but our instruc- tors soon alerted us on the difficulties that we would encounter on our journey along the way. During the first year of our voyage for knowledge, we were placed under the com- mand of Mr. Richard H. Vaughan, who successfully piloted us over the Freshman River. Sometimes we were tempted to run -a -ground, but by sound teaching we were rescued from the strain of misfortune and steered on. As we sailed we learned to appreciate the wonders of English, history, mathematics, and science. Every day held new inter- ests for us, and along the rivers were school buoys to keep us out of the rivulet of trifleness, laziness, impudence, and ignorance. After cruising for one year, we crossed the borders into Sophomore Sea. On this sea we sailed under the four divisions with the same pilot. We were anxious to be intelli- gent; therefore, none would sulk or shrink from work fearing they would be marooned. On beginning our third voyage, we felt that we knew it all, and held our heads high. Mr. Richard H. Vaughan was still our pilot. Mrs. Poles acquainted us with chemistry , Mr. Henderson enabled us to appreciate French, and Miss Davis advanced us further in the English language. Here wegavemany entertainments for our Cruiser, ECHS, whom we loved dearly. As we neared the end of our Junior Strait, we thought all would be smooth sailing. When we were ushered by incoming waves into Senior Ocean, we were at the highest that the old Cruiser could give us in knowledge. During the years we had built our reputation and all eyes were focused on the famous crew. V e found that these waters were very rugged and required good steering. Our pilot, Mr. Vaughan, kept before us daily our duties and responsibilities as seniors. This year brought members of the class closer together and we lived as if one family. We conquered the rocks of geometry, the sands of French, and waters of English that lashed against our sides. We shuddered at times when our way seemed dark and weary, but clung closer together and conquered them all. Soon we saw a haven of rest and the reward for our struggle for grasping the rules and regulations of being skillful pilots. The haven of rest was part of graduation. To realize that we are leaving our schoolmates causes us pain, for we will weep as we leave our old Ironsides, with its skillful pilots and captains. Undergraduates, we hope that you will help the good ECHS to always maintain its reputation and fame by profiting by this™ -the history of the exalted Class of 1956 ! --“Ruby Naomi Muse Otaem O class ' 56, with such a great band. As we leave Ole Essex we must understand. When we leave this part, be kind and true. Never forget the fundamentals taught to us. Honorable classmates, we are about to go. Brave up, prepare for life ' s tough blow. The race is calling for leaders bold. The world is wide with opportunities untold. Let us all brace up and get into the game. Fight hard to uphold our honorable name. Old Father Time is beckoning you. He has much for this class to do. We sing, we speak, we teach and dance. We all know life is a game of chance. This foundation, strong and bold. The power of thought, with keen vision and self control. We ' ll pull through with might and main. Struggle hard, O class of 56 and win your fame. We leave you, dear teachers, with grief in our h earts. For it ' s now time for us to depart. Your loving care has guided us right. With your knowledge of instruction, we now see the light. So, good-bye, dear faculty we ' ve but to say Your pupils are leaving to be great someday. --Sarah Cauthorne Cia )A S ti Tune; Lilac Time Our school days here have passed and gone, Yet the sweet memories linger on. We know ' tis true, ±at Essex, well do The things you ' d have us to. For deep in our hearts there will lie. Our school days here at old Essex High. ' Tis sad to part with those we love. Who made us strive for those things above. Who for four years, the smiles and tears Taught us the things to shun: Taught us the meaning of right. That made our school life so bright. Our t reasure chest, in it will lie Sweet memories of Essex High, Guarded by lock and golden key. There to remain through eternity. We ' ll cherish the lessons you taught us. Also the meaning they brought us. Chorus Farewell, dear Essex, fare thee well, In our hearts you ' ll forever dwell. Good-bye, dear teachers, you ' re so kind and true. 3 Jie Aec Tired and weary at heart from my search among the ruins of the ages for that most cov- eted of prizes, the crystal globe, which would enable me to see far into the future, I sat down to rest at the base of an old pyramid. Suddenly the thought came-- You have not searched here; try this before giving up. Arising, I looked at the network of stone and fate bade me to enter. Through a labyrinth of secret passages and a winding maze of time, Ihad attained the entrance to the mysterious chambers of the Ancient Sear in the underground depths of the pyramids. I firmly brushed aside the portiere and passed into the dimly-lighted room. Clouds of pungent incense arose incessantly from theseveral oddly formed urns at the base of an immense golden shrine. The entire chamber seemed steeped in mysterism. At the center of the room upon a beautiful golden tripod reposed a huge, transparent crystal sphere in which could be seen the future, present, or past of mortal man. Standing exultantly before it I cried, O mirror of all ages, show to me the Class of ’56! Trembling, yet eager, 1 gazed into the crystal ball. It suddenly assumed a milky whiteness that gradually became clear. Crowds, rov upon row, were squirming among an ocean of seats. They rose to look upon tlie portrait designed by Mary Hill, tlie Queen of Arts. Tile scene changes, I see a home of the Spanish type. Inside a dainty young lady moves easily about, placing a chair here and a pillow tliere. She stops to smooth the hair of a handsome man, who reposes in an easy chair. They look up and smile, and I see that they are our own Barbara Taylor, a criminal lawyer, and James Jackson, a mechanic. They are now Mr. and Mrs. James Jackson. The ball becomes cloudy--is it the end? No, the scene has changed. Across the globe spreads the drawing room of a Rhode Island home. A sophisticated lady comes smiling to the foreground. It is Dorothy Bundy, an elementary teacherat the Beth Page Elementary School. Her husband, an undertaker, appears to be James Gray. Now slowly, it fades and a beauty shop comes upon the scene. The busy beauticians, Grace Muse, Barbara Peterson, and Beatrice Wright are at v ork. Now all is black. I am tempted to flee, but a light appears and I see a hospital, with ambulances at the door, and nurses rushing here and there. The head nurse is Pauline Wil- son and the head doctor is James Smith. I see two other neatly dressed nurses, Anna Pratt and Mae Pearl Lee. The scene fades and there appears an office building on Wall Street, hear the tap-tap of a typewriter. At a desk, with a sea of papers before her, sits Grace Johnson. Oh! The scene vanishes; I see now a city street. Here on this street is a large auto- mobile factory ov ned by Harry Lee. Far, far away comes the strains of an old Beethoven melody. The music surges upward, then decreases in volume. Sarah Cauthorneis at the piano, andsinging beside her is Barbara Blagmon. Ensuing is the scene of the SandCastle School. I see that Betty Beale, Rdsetta Cauthorne, and Gloria Smith are elementary teachers there along with Laura Morris who teaches math- ematics. This scene v as followed by the appearance of a courtroom. Seated on the stand is attor- ney-at-law Ann Jones. Just as news travels fast, so quickly goes the scene to Boston ' s largest publishing house. There at the desk is Ruby Muse who is a graduate of Miles Stone University. The scene changes to titat of a dense forest. Outlined against the top of the trees, I see a tall towered structure surrounded by a high v all where within sit two wealthy men, Lloyd Johnson, electrical engineer, and Harold Byrd, a brick mason. As 1 go on, I see Arnetta Taylor, a seamstress, and Katherine Ruffin, a designer. Appearing now on the scene is a large party taking place at the home of bachelor Allen VVormley. His maid is ushering in his guests; Charles Hill, a press agent, and Joseph Noel, a barber, are among them. Slowly, the scene fades, and the crystal becomes clear to remain so forever. Arising, 1 relieved the tension of my nerves and the weariness of my body and mind. With a long sigh of wonderment and sadness, 1 turned from the room with a murmur of, Thank thee, Omir- ror of ages, and went out into the soft golden twilight of an oriental evening. Barbara Taylor Pauline Wilson k i Sje4tiefc SjLip£fii(Uwe6. Most Intellectual Most Studious Katherine Ruffin Laurae Morris Barbara Peterson Sarah Cauthorne Most Courteous Most Athletic Gloria Smith Ann Jones James Smith Allen Wormley Best Personality Best Liked Betty Beale Ruby Muse Joseph Noel Grace Muse Wittiest Most Likely to Succeed Anna Pratt Grace Johnson Pauline Wilson Lloyd Johnson Best Groomed Most Business Like James Jackson Mary Hill Dorothy Bundy Arnetta Taylor Mudicat Mexydd. Love Has Joined Us Together E. C. H, S. My Saddest Hours — Late for Class Every Night About This Time Assignments Poor Me Failed a Subject Somebody Help Me -- — Wanted in the Office 24 Hours of the Day Studying for Test Green Backs Buying Graduation Necessities Stormy Weather Failing to Graduate When You Waltz to the Stars Prom Night Oh Happy Day Graduation Somewhere Over the Rainbow Finding a Job I ' ll Be True to You Alma Mater WAit We, the Class of ' 56 about to pass out of this sphere of our education because of our sound judgement and good sense, deem it wise to make move and declare this to be our last will and testament. To our Principal and Faculty, we bequeath our sincere thanks for the valuable in- structions and encouragement given us toward intellectual and moral development. To the Undergraduates, we bequeath a broad intellect and a strong determination to study. Individually, we make the following bequests which we treasure most: Ruby Muse, who doesn ' t wish for the softball team to be discredited, leaves her job as catcher to Eva Miller. Barbara Peterson treasures all of her possessions and therefore prefers to keep them. Mary Hill, who is very capable of speaking for herself, leaves some of that abili- ty to Clara Gaines, Barbara Blagmon, whosevoicein anyone ' s estimation is terrific, wants Nell Robin- son to share some of that talent. Mae Pearl Lee, who is a rather smooth dancer as everyone knows, would like to leave some of that ability to Delilah Burnett. Anna Pratt leaves her government book to Ann Pratt. Pauline Wilson leaves her position as guard on the basketball team to Virginia Bowler. Dorothy Bundy leaves her geometry book to the future Juniors. Barbara Taylor wills her winning ways to Eliza Ann Byrd who always loses to Barbara. Rosetta Cauthorne leaves her two great traits --quietness and a fine sense of humor to Bar- bara Ann Young. Betty Mae Beale, who always has a kind word and a sweet smile foreveryone, leaves words of kindness and welcome to the Freshmen. Beatrice Wright treasures all her possessions, therefore, she takes all of them with her. Grace Johnson, who thinks she knows all there is to know aboutsports, leaves herknowledge to Feme 11 Muse. Grace Muse leaves her fascinating ways to Elsie Bowler who doesn ' t fascinate her at all. Ann Jones, a star basketball player, leaves her ability to play basketball to Geneva Layne. Katherine Ruffin, a more than easy to get along with person, leaves some of her easiness to Virginia Bowler. Sarah Cauthorne, who doesn ' t feel that she will need her shortness leaves it to Mary Blag- mon. Gloria Smith, who plays softball and doesn ' t like to see it abused, leaves her batting abili- ty to Althena Harris. Arnetta Taylor leaves her quiet spoken voice to someone who is not quite as quiet, Ann Pratt. James Jackson wills his nearness to James Pitts. James Gray leaves his bus driving ability to Hamilton Fortune. Joseph Noel, who is unusually tall, wills his height to James Giles. Harold Byrd wills his joking ways to Fred Covington. Allen Wormley leaves his ability to play basketball to Samuel Lumpkin. James Smith wills his sophisticated manner to William Brooks. John Blagmon wills his job as bus driver to Mack Johnson. Lloyd Johnson v ills his slim figure to John Quarles. Harry Lee leaves his pleasant smile to Charles Key. Being as it is that Laura Morris talks a lot and feels that she can depart with some of this ability, she leaves that part to Joyce Brown. Being as it is that we do not want to go lack, we take with us our most treasured possessions- the memory of the fun we have shared at E, C. H. S. and our Senior Dignity. We hereby, do constitute and appoint our teacher Mr. Richard H. Vaughan sole executor of this, our last will and testament. In wimess, we the Classof 1956 have to this Willset our hand and seal-this Sixth Day of June Anno Domini , One Thousand Nine Hundred and Fifty-Six. Laura Morris WITNESSES: Grace Johnson Barbara Taylor Ruby Muse Gloria Smith Left to right: Althena Harris, President; Joyce Washington, Vice President; Edna Gaines, Secretary; Clara Booker, Assistant Secretary; and Eleanor Wright, Treasurer. FIRST ROW: Prince Banks, James Reynolds, Thiadar Taylor, Robert Gray, Emmett Gardner. SECOND ROW: Geneva Layne, Gladys Blagmon, Joyce Washington, Edna Gaines, Miss Dav- is, Sponsor, Sarah Lee, Nell Robinson, Ann Pratt. THIRD ROW: Samuel Lumpkin, Virgie Johnson, Jean Newman, Clara Gaines, Dorothy Dandridge, Deloris Peterson, Theresa John- son, Edv in Young, Carrie Fortune, Mildred Fortune, Clara Booker. FOURTH ROW:Lorenzo Harris, James Braxton, Gordon Jones, Hamilton Fortune, Samuel Pitts, William Holmes, Wilbur Golden, Patricia Young, Althena Harris, Virginia BowLer. Eleanor Wright, William Wright, and Delilah Burnette. 70 O I “O CiPfice%6. Left to Right: Howard Phillips, Pres. ; Ann Braxton, Vice-Pres. ; Alice Johnson, Secre- tary; Charles Young, Treasurer; Ann Sayles, Assistant Secretary. FIRST ROW: James Giles, Russell Lomax, James Banks, Ed in Brooks. SECOND ROW: Pauline Holmes, Patricia Johnson, Joyce Robb, Barbara Young, Mary Phillips, Ann Brax- ton, Eva Miller, Josephine Ross. THIRD ROW: Charles Young, Clinton Beale, Joseph Ruffin, Ann Sayles, Mr. Henderson, Sponsor, Alice Johnson, Hugh Gaines, Howard Phil- lips, Melvin Beale. E Left to Right: William Hence, Pres. ; Girlene Johnson, Treasurer; Jean Richardson, Secretary; Walter Robinson, Vice-President. C L A S S ' ' B” Seated, Left to Right: Jean Richardson, Mary Blagmon, Frances Holmes, Girlene Johnson, Lucy Hill, Catherine Snowden, Dorothy Lee, Gladys Johnson. BACK ROW: Richard Newman, Elsie Bowler, Ed- ward Ransome, Mary Muse, Charles Key, William Pitts, William Hence, John Gardner, Ruth Lee, Mr. Bowens, Sponsor. LL g: UJ ( ) H :5 z FIRST ROW; Left to Right: Sylvia Jones, Secretary; Louise Pratt, President; Mary Clark, Assistant Secretary; Florine Roane, Vice President; SECOND ROW: Mary Lee, Chr. of Program Comm. ; Joyce Brown, Chr. of Sick Comm. ; and Ruth Fortune, Treasurer. FIRST ROW: Mary Segar, Mary Burrell, Diane Clements, Jennie Bundy, Joyce Brown, Ruth Richardson, Vir- ginia Nelson, Mary Lee. SECOND ROW: Christine Scott, Milton Beale, Edna Holmes, Estellia Taylor, Barbara Corbin, Betty Taylor. Charlotte Thompkins, Bertha Hill, Gloria Ransome, Ruth Blagmon. THIRD. ROW: Mrs. Poles, Sponsor; Franklin Corbin, Addison Smith, Herbert Pettiford, Zoline Bundy, Margaret Thornton, Sylvia Jones, Frances Sutton, Florine Roane, Eliza Byrd, Dorothy Lee, Mary Clarke, Ruth Fortune, Louise Pratt. FOURTH ROW: Leroy Blagmon, John Cauthorne, James Surles, Bernard Clarke , John Vaughan, Elwood Gray, Robert Gray, Samuel Banks, Robert Banks. GO GO r- O CLASS WORK Mathematics We the devoted members of the Sophomore Class are within the most precious years of our lives. The fundamentals of mathematics will help us to build the foundation that embodies the making of great citizens of America. Our government becomes more democratic--“Barbara Blagmon, a student in the senioj government class, explains to the class how each student can play a part in hisgcvern- ment. ome Economics Homemaking seeks to helpsmdents in two v ays: first to achieve satisfying family and personal life, and secorJd ' to develop better understanding of themselves so that theymay maintain satisfactory re la tionship with others. Science This world in which we live is filled with the results of scientific research. It is the aim of this class to share in that research. Agriculture The department is in its third year ofop- eration and has an enrollment of fifty-nine boys. The majority of tliese boys are farm boys and have well rounded programs of su- pervised farming. We believe in the state- ment Supervised farming provides experi- ence which contribute to the development of abilities needdd for proficiency in farming of tlie type in which the students are likely to engage. Driver Education The Driver Education and Training Course is designed to provide an educa- tional process which will give pupils the knowledge necessary to prevent traffic accidents. English Finding information about questions by effective Reading and Comprehension is the task assigned to the above Eleventh Grade English Class. Engl ish Ninth Grade students develop under- standing and reasoning by building sen- tences which enable them to do a crea- tive job of improving their abilities in oral and written expression. ACTIVITIES We believe that a wide variety of activities is necessary to build well rounded individuals, and we are proud of the opportunities that E. C. H. S. offers. Student Counci I The Student Council at Essex County High School is an industrious group, made up of two re- presentatives from each homeroom and the student body officers. During the school year the council conducts campaigns to secure funds for scholarships and athletic awards. The council members also sponsor the Miss Essex Contest and the winner is crowned on Homecoming Day--in May. 3Ae. Siaf P In presenting this 1955-56 edition of THE TIGER we have endeavored to give you an ever- lasting picture of the life and activities, as well as the traditions of ECHS. Editor — --- James Jackson Business Manager Harold Byrd Assistant Editor --Dorothy Byndy Literary Editor — Betty Beale Publicity Editor Katherine Ruffin Sports Editor Grace Johnson Class Editor — ---Gloria Smith (Not Pictured) Advertising Editor Barbara Peterson Social Editor — Sarah Cauthorne Typist — Miss Davis Advisor Mr. Vaughan Advisor --- — Mrs. Poles Mem Clf dmefcica Shown with the ensignia of their respective offices are the officers of the Essex Chapter of the New Fanners of America for 1955-1956. This Chapter is a member of the Chesapeake Federation. Left to Right: Mr. Holmes-Instructor,. James Giles-Vice President, Gordon Jones - President, Charles Young -Reporter, Edwin Brooks -Secretary, and James Grey-Treasurer. N. F. A. CkiwUette The N F A started the year with these young men who have accepted the responsibility of the music por tion of the chapter. We are looking forward to a successful competitive school year. Left to Right: Charles Young, Walter Robinson, William Pitts, and Hugh Gaines. Safety Patrol The promotion of safety, high ideals, moral standards, and a greater spirit of brotherly love among our fellow students is our goal. For this great cause we dedicate ourselves as the school’s Safety Patrol. Grace Johnson, captain, not pictured. New Homemakers Of America i Motto; Better Homes for a Better Nation . JM CAcjuii QXuB- The Choral Club of 1955-56 will strive to be an asset to the school and community by developing talent and by appreciating and rendering good music. Mrs. F. H. Johnson is the Director. The six talented cheerleaders demon- strate splendid timing and coordination, as they put an abundance of animation 1 into the cheerleading at E sex High. The Dramatics Club affords each member an opportunity to express himself vividly, increase his vocab- ulary, enunciate clearly, develop confidence and poise, and to gain intellectually and culturally. Mrs. M. B. Poles is the Director. Sxjfuad jAe eCid FEATURES Ca teua The school Cafeteria fits into the educational scheme to provide meals which apply to the theories of health and nutrition learned in the class- room. Sjceuta. The Scout Troop 209 of the Robert E. Lee Council believes and executes the scout law to the fullest extent. Stme. The store is seldom without students during store hours. Here they purchase school supplies and confections. Under the supervision of the librarian, library helpers have a daily routine of working in the library. These Senior Players found enjoyment in producing Cute and Peppy”, a one act farce by Donald Payton. Here the cameraman caught the players as they appeared on the entrance of The World’s Champeen Horseback Rider. The crowning of Laura Morris as Miss Essex at oui Annual May Day Festival was a gala event. Miss Essex led a colorful parade of floats, representing various school activities through the downtown business sec- tion of our town. The May Queen, Diane Stewart, reigns graciously with her court above. PICTURED: Left to Right: Thelma Johnson, Barbara Reynolds, Jean Vaughan, Madline Young, Shirley Coleman, and Sylvia Jones. no “ rany P ' -= “ ' ;,Te f life. P most ° t U aU tha tiard «heie yoo need me ve go mpUment- vou a imndted pel oii lot i„g come Ces come my d netP me m H-P - -To” - «Tr -e He P--- ankW f° ' ' ' — ■ 50uaie. � tog the other gnyt- Te other players. e wit :i both . -f fate seems to uppetc Finally. Go elf sic hands and I’tn at he game ame-uP -3tT?:i;“=-’ ‘ ' ' ' ...-Chaplain ' s I ‘8“ ' Girls’ Basketball The ECHS girls won the Group III Championship for the year 1954-1955 making it their second successful year with the league. The girls have pledged to give their all for another successful season. STANDING; Left toR ightare: Laura Morris, Thresa Johnson, Mrs. M. G. Bayton-Coach, Bertha Hill, Mary Clark and Mary Lee. KNEELING: Left to Right are: Beatrice Wright. Barbara Blagman , Deloris Peterson, Pauline Wilson, Dorothy Dandridge-Captain and Ann Jones-Co-Captain. Boys’ Basketball The Tigers started another season of competition in the VIA. We are members of Group III- District One of the VIA. This team is beginning this season with a new ' string ' of players. We are grateful for the assistance of a new coach, Mr. William Gresham. Softball This is the nCfcleus of the 1955 Softball Champions who won the TIAA Cham- pions for two consecutive years, and in that time have remained undefeated. The team is coached by Mr. P. B. Parks and Mr. F. P. Holmes. The group is composed of the following players: Left to Right, Grace Johnson, Gloria Smith, Ruby Muse, Deloris Peterson, A Ithena Harris, Naomi Dandridge, Betty Beale, Ann Jones and Alice Johnson- -Coaches Holmes and Parks standing. The baseball team of Essex County High School will begin its spring train- ing in the month of March for the 1956 season. The baseball team is a member of the VIA Group Ill-District One. We are glad to have the assistance of a new coach, Mr. William Gresham. Q aftt As we think of the elementary grades as the foundation on which higher education is built, we cannot fail to realize the great part that the retiring educator, Mrs. Julia Young Grant, displayed in building that foundation for us. On this introductory page to our elementary class activities we give reverence to one whose loyalty and interest were one with ours. We think of her as one whose patience was endless, whose friendship was ever genuine, and whose service and loyalty were ever an inspiration to all. ELEMENTARY CLASSES Seventh Grade pupils share a great interest in using library references and have a prized love for popular reading. The Seventh Graders enjoy their social studies recitation periods under the supervision of Mr. Epps. m m This class is busy completing its assignments for the various classes of the day. Instructor, Mrs. Z. C. Jackson. Madeline Young, a Sixth Grade pupil, explains a problem in fractions as Jean Vaughan and Raymond Richardson look on. Instructor, Mrs. M. G. Bayton. ' • • dnd Mo aetn£nUi% C£aAAe i These Fifth Grade students, under the supervision of Mrs. E. B. Booker, are observing A Guide To Good Eating chart as an aid in studying a unit on Wise Daily pood Planning. A study period is included in the daily schedule to assist students with problems that might go unattended at home. Here we find members of the Fourth Grade engaged in such a studv hour under the supervisionof Mr. W. B. Gresham. (Not Shown) Und nupic Third Grade pupils are constantly displaying creative ability through free hand drawing. Art affords a fine outlet for self-expression. Miss V. V. Waugh, instructor. Pupils exhibit various means of expression through silent and oral reading, discussion groups, and dramatizations. Mrs. E. Y. Stevens, instructor. ♦ ♦ ♦ dnd StUi Mme These Second Grade students listen attentively as Mrs. J. R. Burton explains a new phase of their daily recreational program. Substitute teacher. Miss Ella Moore, assists these Second Grade students with their work on Spelling Drills, a daily activity of the class. This class is now under the supervision of Mrs. F. H. Johnson. m m (Ztid ACaui Jyfie tnd JAe Interest and confidence lead to independence. An effective initial reading program starts these First Graders on the road to independence in reading. Miss M. E. Saunders is the instructor. The First Grade pupils listen enthusiastically as stories are being told by, their classmates. Mrs. E. L. Harris is the instructor. BOOSTERS Mrs. Ida Bailey Mrs. Ethel Banks Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Banks Mr. and Mrs. Banks Bayton Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Baughan Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Bayton Mr. and Mrs. Clinton Beale Mr and Mrs. Albert Blagmon Mr. and Mrs. T. S. Blagmon Mr. S. A. Blagmon Mr. and Mrs. Ruldoph Bowens Mrs. Bell Braxton Mr. William Brooks Mr. and Mrs. Milton Brown Mr. and Mrs. Wilson Brown Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Bundy Miss Delilah Burnett Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Burton Mrs. Myrtle Byrd Mr. and Mrs. Louis Carter Mr. and Mrs. Willie Carter Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Cauthorne Mrs. Mansfield Coleman Mrs. Virginia Covington Mrs. Martha Darby Miss Mattie R. Davis Mr. and Mrs. Robert Dunning Mr. Howard Epps Miss Queen E. Ford Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Fortune Mrs. Rosa Fortune Miss Clara Gaines Mr. Wilbert Golden Mr. Herman Gray Mr. James Gray, Sr. Mr. William Gresham Mr. and Mrs. Herman Hall Mr. and Mrs. T. D. Harris Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Harrison Rev. and Mrs. W. R. Henderson Mr. and Mrs. Major Hickman Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hill Miss Shirley Hill Mrs. Frances Holmes Mr. and Mrs. F. P. Holmes Mrs. Marion Holmes Mr. and Mrs. Char lie Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Jackson Mr. and Mrs. James Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jackson Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Jeter Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Charles S. Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Frank Johnson Mrs. Martha Johnson Mr. Franklin Johnson Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Roane Mr. William R. Johnson Mr. and Mrs. James Ruffin Miss Theresa Johnson Mr. and Mrs. F. N. Savage Mrs. Elizabeth Jones Mrs. Bessie Sayles Miss Monroe Jones Mr. Eugene Sayles Mr. Isaac Layne Mr. and Mrs. William Segar Mr. and Mrs. Harry Lee Mr. and Mrs. William Sheldon Mr. and Mrs. Julian Lee Miss Edith Smith Mrs. Nellie Lomax Mr. Francis Smith Mr. Samuel Lumpkin Mrs. Janet Smith Mr. and Mrs. Archie Morris, Sr. Mrs. Martha V. Smith Mr. Archie Morris, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. E. G. Stewart Mr. Charles McGuire Mrs. E. Y. Stevens Mrs. Charity Muse Mrs. Gertrude Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Gressie Muse Mrs. Fantry Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Walter Noel Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Taylor Mrs. Mary Parker Mr. and Mrs. William Taylor, Sr. i 1 Mr. and Mrs. P. B. Parks Mr. Russel Thornton Mr. Robert Payne Mr. and Mrs. Seldon Tunstall Mr. Herbert Pettiford Miss Joyce Washington Mrs. James Pitts Miss Vestillia Washington Mr. and Mrs. M. T. Poles Mr. and Mrs. Walter Welch Mr. John Pratt, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Harry Wihon Mr. Robert Pratt, Jr. Mrs. Mary Wormley Mr. and Mrs. Robert Pratt Mr. and Mrs. Roger Wormley Mr. Thomas Pratt Miss Elenora Wright Mr. James Reynolds Mr. and Mrs. James Wright Mrs. Ernestine Richardson Rev. and Mrs. James Wynne Mr. Robert Wright , i rirwirr-.Tirmri i uadtJiLi.iu i m n ■ ii i i ' ' Loyal Suppo r t e r s Thanks and Appreciat i 0 n To Our Advertise rs Compliments of a Friend Passagaluppi Esso Servicecenter Compliments of Best Power Teara for Your Car Esso Extra Gasoline and Uniflo Motor Oil Tr iang le Inn Phone Hi 3-4191 Tappahannock, Virginia Southern States Compliments of Cooperative Mary Johnson Authorized Agency Seamstress Tappahannock, Virginia Caret, Virginia Phone: Hi 3-4387 Tappahannock Milling Company M itche 1 1 Se Iden , Inc . Dealers in Rough and Sales and Service Dressed Lumber Pontiac and International G. T. Boughan, Manager Tappahannock, Virginia Tastee Freeze Compliments of Store America ' s Favorite frozen Dessert Ca rter Venab le Tappahannock, Virginia Allen C. Bareford - Manager Tappahannock, Virginia Your Progress Means our Progress The DAW THEATRE at Tappahannock has always been blessed with an unusual large patronage from the people in this entire area, and we are deeply appreciative of your support. Good luck to all of you and it is indeed a pleasure for us to support you and all your worthy endeavors Such as publishing this fine 1956 Yearbook. Daw Theatre Tidewater, Virginia ' s Best Small Town Theatre George Clanton, owner-manager Tappahannock, Virginia Tidewater Laundry Phone Hi 3-4444 Tappahannock, Virginia Compliments of J. C. Hayden The J ewe 1 ry Shop Shoe Repair Shoe Repairing of all Kinds Tappahannock, Virginia Compliments of Mr. William Jackson Metal Arts Co Representative Richmond, Virginia When in Tappahannock visit Harris Bros. Restaurant Light lunches-Cold Drinks Courteous Service D. T. Harris, Manager Phone: Hi 3-4333 T, W. Bonner Wholesalers and Distributors Candy-Tobacco Cigars -Notions Paper Products Phone: He 5-2347 Brays Fork Service Station and Restaurant Gas and oil Courteous Service Sandwiches and Refreshments Phone: Hi 3-3873 T. C. Harris, Prop. Compliments of Pet Dairy Products Compan Pasteurized Dairy Products Pet Ice Cream A Health Food Phone : 6-1523 Richmond, Virginia Compliments of Compliments of June Parker Thompson Machine Works Tappahannock, Virginia Tappahannock, Virginia Compliments of Tappahannock Hundley Furniture Store and Evans Tappahannock, Virginia Tappahannock, Virginia Phone Hi 3-2811 Compliments of Compliments of Brooks Dry E. Garrett New Goods Store Tappahannock, Virginia Tappahannock, Virginia Martin Sale Modern Furniture Co., Inc. C 1 e a n e r s New and Used Furniture A distinctive Cleaning Service Tappahannock, Virginia Tappahannock, Virginia L. C. Richmond Hi 3-5211 James Hilton, Jr. Malcome Hilton B and S Motor Sales Mercury Tappahannock, Virginia Phone: Hi 3-4844 Compliments of J . L. Holmes S tore Hustle, Virginia Winter’s Esso Warsaw, Virginia We make friends through sales We keep friends through service Tir e s- Tube s-Batteries- Accessories Phone; Ed 3-2021 Economize at The Economy Department Store Warsaw, Virginia Phone: Ed 3-6500 Compliments of Rappahannock Gas Company Tappahannock, Virginia Phone; Hi 3-4635 Compliments of Ernest Y. Brooks Authorized Dealer Stores in Tappahannock and Warsaw Phone: Hi 3-5500 Ed 3-2121 Nor them Neck Tire and Recapping, Co. New and Used Tires Repair work of all Kinds Phone; Ed 3-7500 Compliments of French’s Market Tappahannock, Virginia Phone Hi 3-2162 Essex 5 t to $1.00 Store Compliments of Western Auto Associa te Store Tappahannock, Virginia Peoples Drug Store Tappahannock, Virginia Cosmetics Tobacco Magazines Fountain Service Phone-Hi 3-2700 Spatz Store Shop where your dollars have more cents Tappahannock, Virginia Flowers and Gifts for all occasions The Essex Florist Phone or write us and we will take care of your needs Hi 3-4674 Ed 3-7331 Tappahannock Warsaw Candies-Stationery- Jewelry Gifts-Toilet articles-Toys Novelties -Notions Tappahannock, Virginia Compliments of The Bank of Essex Tappahannock, Virginia Member FDIC Best Wishes To The Graduates of 1956 Compliments of Firestone Dealer Store Southside Bank E. A. Gaines Tappahannock, Virginia Tappahannock, Virginia Home and Auto Supplies Compliments of i Loving Chevrolet Corporation Tappahannock, Virginia CHE VROLET, L. G. Balfour Company Mfg. of Essex County High School ' s Rings with Exclusive Prisma-Tite Back Edward C. Smith 4111 Kensington, Avenue Richmond 21, Virginia Phone 4-3542 McGuire Tourist H om e Compliments of Brooks and Son, Inc. Claries E. McGuire, Prop. Lumber 445 Marsh, St. Wholesalers and Manufactures Phone Hi 3-5366 Tappahannock, Va. Tappahannock, Virginia Phone Hi 3-3101 Compliments of Compliments of Tappahannock M . C . Moo re Supply, Co. Incorporated Building Supplies-Hardware Tappahannock, Virginia S. L. Burrough, President Phone Hi 3-4200 Tappahannock, Va. V i