Garrison School was a school for African American students in Liberty, Missouri (in Clay County, Missouri). The school was named for William Lloyd Garrison, an abolitionist who served in U.S. President Abraham Lincoln’s cabinet. One of the school's former buildings is now a cultural center. It is part of the National Register of Historic Places, since it is listed Garrison School Historic District.[1] A historical marker was placed and dedicated in front of the school building in 2020.[2]
The school burned in 1911 and was replaced with a brick building. An addition was added about 1940 as well as the gymnasium/ auditorium.[1] Garrison School had various principals. Its high school department was eventually closed by the board of education and students were bussed to Kansas City's Lincoln High School.[1] It then went up to 10th grade and students had to take a bus to Kansas City to attend Lincoln High School to complete their secondary education.[3] The historic district was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001.
The Kansas City Library has a photograph of the school at 553 Tracy Avenue.[4]
Richard T. Coles established the school as Pleasant Green School. Four years later it became part of the Kansas City School District and was renamed Garrison School.[5]
R. T. Coles was listed as the school's principal when it was at 2327 Lydis Avenue.[6] John Howell also served as a principal of the school.[7]