Macedonia High School

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MACEDONIA, IL –  (Illinois High School Glory Days.  Click the link above for the full story. Here is an excerpt below.)

Macedonia (population 51) is located on the Hamilton-Franklin County line, midway between McLeansboro and Benton.  Modern-day Macedonia consists of the crossroads of two county roads, with one “loop” street, known as Benton Street.  The 2000 census states that there were 17 households remaining in Macedonia.  The Big Muddy River runs one mile to the north of the village.

The 1930-31 Macedonia basketball team. The mascot is unknown. (Photo submitted to Illinois High School glory days by Dennis Downey)

Macedonia had a 3-year high school from 1928 to 1936.  Under the rules of the time, any elementary district which was not included in an established high school district could operate a high school of 3 years or less, and draw state elementary funds to pay for at least part of the program.  Many small rural villages, particularly in the southern half of the state,  took advantage of this. 

A number of laws were changed in 1940’s, resulting in the virtual elimination of 2 and 3-year high schools by 1948.  In Macedonia, most of the high school classes were held in the IOOF Hall on Benton Street.  It is not known if this building is still standing.  A nearby blacksmith shop was also converted for use as a gymnasium.  A total of 194 students attended Macedonia High during it’s short existence.  Macedonia maintained a grade school until 1946, when it and 10 other rural districts consolidated into the old Ewing College facility nearby.
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