Abandoned Places - William Hooper Councill High School (WCHS), Huntsville - Part 1 of 3

[jj_maccrimmon]

I was researching a photo article I wanted to offer to several publications including Alabama A&M (University). The article focused on a little known abandoned gem lying in the heart of downtown Huntsville. In the winter of 2011, I managed to get a guided tour of Huntsville’s former segregated African American high school. William H. Councill

Comments

[timelight]

Love these photos. Note Mural Photo #23 the dancers are all Caucasian. Hmmm Note in photo #25 of the piano with dust - notice the raccoon tracks on the wood cover for the keys.

Shame a municipal buildings like this had to go to waste. I always have trouble understanding why there is not an immediate conversion to something else to protect it from decay. I understand a drive in theater, or even an old home, but schools, factories, etc. I wonder why the waste?
TL (Lesley)

[jj_maccrimmon]

One of the biggest problems with this building being restored was the water leakage and damage even back when it was open according to the city personnel I talked to on the tour. Water seepage from above and below (springs are everywhere under Huntsville's downtown) made the place a health hazard. Structurally, the water from below made the building shift enough that more water leaked in from above. This made the electric system untenable.

[timelight]

Thanks for your answer. You did note the tiles were water damaged.