Harding Academy - Shield Yearbook (Memphis, TN)

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Growing Stronger 5

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GROWING ST RCNGER During the past twenty-five years, Harding has grown from a small school with only twelve graduates to one of the largest schools in Memphis. Harding has excelled in such areas as sports, band, forensics, and drama. Harding knows the thrill of winning and the despair of losing. But Harding is made up of not only outstanding organizations, but also outstanding individuals. It is these individuals growing stronger spiritually, academically, and physically that have made Harding number one. 1 4 Growing Stronger

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, A. H, Y rv- i - FRO 50 TO 2800 Memphis Christian School was opened at the Normal Street Church of Christ in the fall of 1952. Members of the first board of director's were: Jesse Fox, Crawford Allen, Roy Pritchard, L. M. Graves, L. A. Sisco, O. O. Emmons, and Howard Van Eaton. On the steering committee were: S. C. Brewer, Bennie Cook, and E. J. Bonner. The first principal was Mrs. Mary Nell Powers. In 1955, Memphis Christian School moved to Cherry Road as the King Estate was purchased for a sum of 300,000 dollars. This building is currently the Harding Graduate School of Religion. Harding College assumed control of Memphis Christian in 1957 and the school's name was changed to Harding Academy. Construction at the high school was completed in 1957. A gymnasium and football field were also added. In 1958, six classrooms were added in the elementary building. This building is now the Junior High building. Dr. Harold Bowie came to Harding in 1961 and took over the reigns of one of Memphis' fastest growing private schools. Dr. Bowie continues to gain respect for the excellent job he has done. The first branch elementary was at Holmes Road Church of Christ in 1964. Other branches include Whitehaven, White Station, Raleigh, Union Avenue, East Frayser, Macon Road, Wooddale, and Brownsville. Friends of the school contributed to build a 1600 seat auditorium which was named after O. O. Emmons. Harding's Second Mile Campaign was one of the greatest events ever in Harding's twenty-five year history. Over a million dollars was raised to build a new gymnasium, cafeteria, library, bus garage, and ten new classrooms. There were auctions and bonds were sold to raise money for the school. Most of the money came from donations. Fourteen new classrooms were added on in 1974. Tennis courts and two patios were also built that year. Six new classrooms and a gymnasium are under construction. This gymnasium will be used as a girl's gym for physical education classes. These new additions to the Harding campus will be completed next year. Sagas ' H2315 Clif ii l Iw i .lf , ..,, . ,. ...-, MW '