Fenger High School Records

Abstract

The Fenger High School Records are comprised of three major formats: numerous copies of the school yearbook, the Fenger Courier, which in its early years was published twice yearly; photographs taken at a 1946 school dance; and three scrapbooks put together by Mrs. Fenstemacher throughout her career as English teacher at Fenger High School.

Biographical/Historical

Fenger High School, formerly called Curtis High School, first opened in 1903 as a branch of Curtis Elementary School and was located on the corner of 115th and S. State streets. Both elementary and high schools shared a principal, and total enrollment numbered only 80 students.

In 1905, the high school was placed on the accredited list of Chicago schools. Three years later, the first class, consisting of only thirteen students, was graduated. In 1910, in honor of the noted surgeon, the school was renamed the Christian Fenger High School.

As student enrollment and faculty members increased, it was evident that the old structure was no longer adequate to meet the needs of the growing body. Construction began on a larger, modern facility, and in 1926, the new building at the present site of W. 112th and S. Wallace streets was completed.

Throughout its history, Fenger High School has had a long tradition of school and community involvement by the student body. Student participation in the many activities of the school’s clubs and organizations is reflected in the material that comprises the collection.

Scope and Contents

The collection is comprised of three major formats: numerous copies of the school yearbook, the Fenger Courier, which in its early years was published twice yearly; photographs taken at a 1946 school dance; and three scrapbooks put together by Mrs. Fenstemacher throughout her career as English teacher at Fenger High School.

The 28 photographs of a dance for Fenger High School students at the Shoreland Hotel, E. 55th Street and S. Lakeshore Drive, on January 10, 1946, are entirely unidentified, and consist of three types of shots: individual couples, posed; multiple couples, posed; and candid photographs taken on the dance floor.

The scrapbooks contain photographs of students and faculty at various school and social events. Also included are announcements, invitations and programs relating to the activities of the school. The scrapbooks clearly reflect the active role Mrs. Fenstemacher played in the activities of her students on a professional as well as social level.

Also present are one issue of the student newspaper, The Fenger News, an anniversary brochure written by staff and faculty members on the tenth anniversary of occupancy of the present school building, reunion programs and a football schedule.

Arrangement

The items are arranged alphabetically.

Subjects

• Christian Fenger High School (Chicago, Ill.)
• High schools — Illinois — Chicago
• Roseland (Chicago, Ill.)

Related Material

• Calumet Region Community Collection, especially Photograph 1.239 showing the groundbreaking ceremony for Fenger High School, 1924.
• Some volumes of the Fenger Courier are held at the Vivian G. Harsh Collection.
• Fernwood Methodist Church, Fenstemacher Scrapbooks

Collection Inventory