Topeka High School Historical Society

WELCOME TO TOPEKA HIGH SCHOOL'S
HISTORICAL TOUR

Opened on September 17, 1931, Topeka High features six areas with stained glass, four fireplaces & classroom stages, and is the only public high school in the world with an 18 note working Deagan Chime system. Topeka High School was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on June 9, 2005, thus confirming it as a true treasure and part of Topeka's heritage.

The THS Library, 1931 Many consider the Chester Woodward Library to be the most beautiful room in Topeka. Featuring a two-story main reading room, intricate details and a unique atmosphere, this room has been used for meetings and seminars throughout the years.
	THS Auditorium, 1931 The Hoehner Auditorium has been known for its grandeur since 1931. This Gothic theatre seats 1,875 and is illuminated by ten massive chandeliers. It has been used by the Topeka community for a variety of activities and serves as an inspiration to Trojan Thespians.
THS Student Cafeteria, 1931 This spacious banqueting hall features a wood beamed ceiling, wainscoting and a hooded fireplace. Although students no longer use the china service or real flatware, the cafeteria staff still serves up Troy's famous cinnamon rolls and mashed potatoes. It remains the home for Prom and After Prom.
	THS Gymnasium, 1931 Keeping with Topeka High's athletic heritage, this gymnasium has hosted great sporting events. Whether used for practicing or winning championships, the Nicklin Court, named for long time basketball coach, Willie Nicklin, provides a wonderful area for viewing and participating in the traditions of this school.
THS Original Flagpole, 1931 Topeka High's Constitution Plaza showcases its unique flagpole on the east campus - the third spar from the 1797 frigate U.S.S Constitution ("Old Ironsides"). The landscape includes six lower flagpoles flying the five service flags and a MIA/POW flag, a brick path, and the newest feature of the ship's bell from the light cruiser U.S.S. Topeka.
	THS Art Gallery The Topeka Art Guild, in conjunction with Topeka High, financed the large and small Art Galleries; the Guild also occupied an office here until the early 1970s. During that time the school opened this unique high school art gallery to the public on Sunday afternoons. Many prominent artists - among them sculptors Robert Merrill Gage ('11) and James Bass ('51); painters David Overmyer, Aaron Douglas ('17), Mary Huntoon ('16) and Walter Hatke ('67); and designer Bradbury Thompson ('29) have graduated from Topeka High.