Help us SAVE HISTORIC DUPREE SCHOOL!
About Dupree School
Historic Dupree School
Dupree School, located in Ashford, Houston County, Alabama, was constructed in 1904. Simon B. Harper bought forty acres of land from B.M. Hamrick, B.Z. Hamrick, and Rosa Hamrick on October 19, 1904, with one acre set aside for the school.
The schoolhouse educated community children in grades one through six. Dupree School is a typical rural school building featuring a large classroom that can be separated into two rooms by folding doors. The building sits on brick piers and has wood clapboard siding. The school operated until the late 1940s or early 1950s when the school closed. On November 3, 1953, the state of Alaba transferred ownership of the building to the Center Community Club, and the building became their meeting place.
Over the years, Dupree School has been used as a gathering place for social events such as parties and family reunions. The Community Club offered home demonstration classes in cooking, sewing, and quilting. Many gathered on Saturday nights as local musicians entertained with guitar picking and sin. The building also served as polling site for local, state, and national elections.A
Historic Dupree School Preservation Project
In 2018, Hurricane Michael caused considerable damage to the roof, leading to significant interior water damage. Vandalism has also contributed to the poor condition of the structure. Windows have been broken out, some of the furnishings were stolen, and door locks were continuously damaged to gain entry to the building.
In 2021, faced with the threat of losing Dupree School, a group of concerned citizens formed an organization called The Friends of Dupree School In an ambitious effort to save Dupree School.
Get Involved
Friends of Dupree School is receiving donations toward the Dupree School Preservation Project. In addition to receiving donations as we work through the phases of preservation, we are also we are also seeking volunteers who are interested in saving Dupree School by volunteering with administrative, fund raising and various skills as we work to see this project completed.
Historic Dupree School Gallery
Enjoy this tour of past, present and progress with the Historic Dupree School Preservation Project!
Special Offer
Limited Edition Dupree School Christmas Ornament
$15.00
($5.00 shipping)
A beautiful limited edition bisque colored glass ornament with an etched image of Historic Dupree School. Available while inventory lasts. All proceeds go to the Historic Dupree School Preservation Project