The History of Mt. Erie High School
Mt. Erie (population 105) is located in southeastern Illinois in the northeastern portion
of Wayne County. County Roads #2 and #3 intersect in the middle of Mt. Erie. The Newton Branch Creek runs to the
north and to the east of town. There is a Railroad Street that runs through town however there is currently no railroad that travels
through Mt. Erie. The town of Salem is about 35 miles northwest of Mt. Erie.
The history of Mt. Erie and its educational system can be found at the web address of http://www.genealogytrails.com/ill/wayne/mterie2003.htm. Our good friend Roberta Van Breisen sent us this information. The article provides a detailed
history of the town as well as the followimf summarized history of the school.
This article states that Mt. Erie High School was first established in 1914. It was but three years
later that the decision was made to disband the high school. The vote was taken and a one-year high
school was reinstated in 1920. This school was enhanced to a three-year high school in 1926. An outdoor basketball
court was built this year as well.
In 1931, through the leadership of Principal and coach, L.P. Henderson, an old wharehouse
in town was converted into a gymnasium. This led to some very competitive basketball teams for Mt. Erie High
School. In 1940 the folks of Mt. Erie decided to add a fourth year of high school studies to their
school. In 1943 the decision was made to revert to the three-year high school curriculum.
The school year of 1950-51 would be the last group of students to attend Mt.
Erie High School. Beginning in the fall of 1951, all high school students from Mt. Erie were bused to nearby Cisne
High School to complete their education. This arrangement continues today. During its 30 year run Mt. Erie High
School graduated 187 students.
The fate of the original Mt. Erie High School building is being sought. If you have any of the needed
information please e-mail us at eganann@sbcglobal.net .
Mt. Erie High School Quick Facts
Year opened 1st time: 1914
Year closed 1st time: 1917
Year re-opened: 1920
Year closed:
1951
Consolidated to: Cisne High
School
School nickname: unavailable
School colors:
unavailable
School Fight Song: unavailable
