Catoosa County's only historically black school during its time is receiving recognition.
The City of Ringgold unveiled a monument dedicated to the Wilson School on February 13. The building now serves as Ringgold High's JROTC building.
Chance Nix, Catoosa County Schools Superintendent, said it's all been a collaboration between Ringgold High School, Catoosa County Board of Commissioners, and the Wilson School.
"I came up through this great town." said Robert Harris, a former student at the Wilson School. "It was tough in the beginning because whites and blacks, there was no mixture. When they integrated us, it was the worst nightmare of my life. I cried a lot of days coming home."
Anna Ruth Montgomery, another former student, said, "Our teachers taught us how to love, how to get along. You know, we was just like a great big family."
"We really are on hollow ground." said Nix. "We are standing on the shoulders of giants. I think about the educators that were here before, to know that we took the time today to celebrate that, Im just so thankful to be a part of that."
"Thank God for this day. Thank God for this day that was long overdue," said another former student, Jerry Jenkins.
