The History of Ashland High School
The community of Ashland (population 1,361) is nestled in the southeast corner of Cass County on
Il. Rt. 125 approximately 25 miles northeast of the state capital of Springfield. The Panther Creek flows near town
as well.
Ashland has a rich tradition of education and competitive teams in high school athletics. The origin
of Ashland High School is not known at this time. What is known is that the high school districts of Ashland
and Chandlerville consolidated in 1989 to form A - C Central High School. The high school students attend classes
in the Ashland High School building. In-put is being sought from AHS alumni as to some of the important facts you
would like to share regarding Ashland High School.
Ashland High School Quick Facts
Year opened: late 1800s
Year deactivated: 1989
Consolidated to: Ashland-Chandlerville Central High School (A-C Central)
School nickname: the "Panthers"
School colors: Purple & White
School Fight Song: "Cheer, Cheer for Old Ashland High"
Notre Damne University Fight Song Tune
Thank you to Antje Hillen-Pippin
CHEER CHEER FOR OLD ASHLAND HIGH,
LOYAL WE'LL BE UNTIL WE DIE,
SEND THE VOLLEY CHEERS ON HIGH,
SHAKE DOWN THE THUNDER FROM THE SKY,
WHAT THO' THE ODDS BE GREAT OR SMALL,
OLD ASHLAND HIGH WILL WIN OVER ALL,
WHILE HER LOYAL SONS GO MARCHING,
ONWARD TO VICTORY!!
Athletics
Ashland High School produced some excellent athletes over the years it was in existence. The
sport they faired best at according to the IHSA web site was Boys Basketball.
Boys Basketball
The AHS boys brought home seven District Championships! The best of the boys basketball
seasons according to the IHSA web site (www.ihsa.org) are listed below. Ashland is also said to be hosts of one of the longest running basketball tournaments in Illinois,
a holiday tourney run over Christmas break.
1928-29 N.R.A. District Champions
Coach's name unavailable
1931-32 N.R.A. District Champions
Coach's name unavailable
1933-34 N.R.A. District Champions
Coach's name unavailable
1950-51 N.R.A. District Champions
Coach's name unavailable
1951-52 N.R.A. District Champions
Coach's name unavailable
1956-57 N.R.A. District Champions
Coach's name unavailable
1967-68 19 - 8
Coach's name unavailable
1968-69 22 - 7 District Champions Coach's
name unavailable
1970-71 21 - 4
Coach Gary Tasker
1971-72 18 - 7
Coach Gary Tasker
1978-79 18 - 9
Coach Richard Tillitt
*Coach Richard Tillitt was an outstanding fast pitch softball pitcher for the Wells
Fargo men's team that was successful in the late 70's early 80's.
Track and Field
Ashland HS had two individuals bring home medals from the IHSA State Track Meet. In 1908 Ashland High
School placed 8th overall at the State Meet. Since there was only one class in those years this is a pretty
incredible accomplishment. Below are the state meet award winners from Ashland HS.
1907-08 Julius Timian Hammer
Throw STATE CHAMPION!!
Ashland
HS Boys Team finished 8th overall
1908-09 Julias Timian Hammer
Throw 2nd Place
1909-10 Julias Timian
Hammer Throw 3rd Place
1984-85 Dan Devlin
800 Meter Run 6th Place
Other Sports
Girls Athletics were also offered at Ashland HS however there is no information available
on the IHSA web site. The girls of Ashland High were introduced to a volleyball and softball program in the 1975-76
school year. We are seeking information on girls athletics as well as any other sports offered by Ashland High School.
If you can provide this information please complete a School Submission form.
Activities
Ashland High School had their fair share of success in the activity spotlight in the 1950's and 1960's.
The Debate team qualified for the State Tournament in 1958-59.
The Individual Events teams won District Championships in back-to-back-to-back years: 1963-64, 1964-65
and 1965-66.
More Information
More information is being sought about Ashland High School; use the Guest Commentary Form or the School
Submission Form to sumbit. Corrections are welcome as well. If you have more Information about Ashland High School, including
the nickname, school colors, song and win-loss records and other great teams you would like to share please e-mail
this website at eganann@sbcglobal.net .
You may also write us at:
Illinois HS Glory Days
6439 N. Neva St.
Chicago,
IL 60631
