History of Lamar Elementary School in Laurel, Mississippi mostly forgotten. (Revisited again)

Lamar Elementary School was originally a two room frame school building known as Kingston School in 1908. The current Lamar Elementary School was built in 1913 as a 2‐story building with an attic. In 1915, another attic was added to the 2nd floor. The cafeteria was downstairs. Lamar Elementary Schools had the same architect as the 1920 Sardis High School. (Ref: Laurel Ledger, December 17, 1908)

Laurel school officials considered to reform the organization of elementary schools in the city but had no plans to close Lamar Elementary School in 1983. On the date of 08/26/1993, Lamar Elementary School was designated as an MS Landmark located in the Laurel Central District of Laurel, Mississippi. Interestingly the date was recorded online as 11/30/1994. (Ref: https://www.apps.mdah.ms.gov/Public/prop.aspx?id=15830&view=facts&y=460)

In 1995, Lamar Elementary School was closed by Laurel school officials. The reason why it closed is enrollment had declined. Also the cost of renovation was prohibitive. Asbestos abatement of the steam heat system and between walls would have to be gutted. The pipes ran under floors and the building. Alice F. Tigert served as principal for 10 years until its closing. (Ref: https://www.colonialchapellaurel.com/services.asp?page=odetail&id=80700&locid=110)

Today Lamar Elementary School is abandoned. No efforts have been made to clean the school building. Some windows are boarded up.

Lamar Elementary School is located at 400 15th Street, Laurel, Mississippi, US 39440.