In this series, which will post on occasional Wednesdays, I populate the landscape of Wilson County with imaginary “historic markers” commemorating people, places, and events significant to African-American history or culture.

We been here.

BARNES SCHOOL

Built 1921 by Wilson City School Board with Rosenwald funds using three-teacher building plan. Closed and auctioned off in 1951 after school consolidation. Building converted to housing; later demolished.

Barnes School was located on what is now Airport Boulevard near a senior living community.

[Note: this entry has been updated, and a new photo inserted, based on more accurate information about the location of Barnes School provided by former students.]