Annandale High School History

The Annandale community derives its name from a Scottish town and an English lord of the same name. For many years it was a toll station on Little River Turnpike. Until the late 1940's, it was the terminus of Columbia Pike and Gallows Road and the beginning of rural Fairfax County. Today, Annandale, though not a city, town, or village of any description, is a thriving community of several shopping centers, many churches, the central campus of Northern Virginia Community College, and approximately 40,000 people. Annandale is not only known for its friendly and progressive people, but also for the high school that bears its name.

Annandale High School, by Fairfax County standards, is an old school. It opened its doors for the first time in September, 1954 to 1,012 students who formerly attended Fairfax and Mt. Vernon schools. At that time, there were only four other high schools in Fairfax County: Fairfax, Mt. Vernon, Falls Church, and Herndon. As of September 1999, the start of Annandale's 46th year, Fairfax County has twenty-three high schools.

The first principal of Annandale High School was Mr. Ralph Buckley who stayed at Annandale from 1954 until 1966 when he became Area II Administrator, at which time Mr. James G. Finch became principal. Mr. Finch remained in that position from 1966 until 1986, when he retired from Fairfax County Public Schools. Mr. Raymond Watson became principal in 1986 and served in that capacity until 1994. Mr. Donald Clausen has been the principal at Annandale since 1994.

It became apparent from the beginning that Annandale High, reflecting the rapid growth of its community, would have to expand its original facilities designed for 800 students. Over the past forty years the facilities have doubled to provide balanced curricular offerings for more than 2,100 students who are served by the school. Annandale High School also houses an evening Adult Education Center. Additions have included the $ 2.6 million renewal program that provided a two-story structure to replace the old metal building (math wing) and other necessary modifications. Every square foot of the thirty-acre site is used to provide the best educational opportunities for the students and the community.

Annandale High School offers exceptional extra-curricular and co-curricular programs in academic, athletic, music, drama, and publications areas. The students have won recognition in national, state, regional, and district competitions in all of these areas. This balanced program has brought recognition not only in the Washington Metropolitan area, but also throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia and the eastern United States. Each year approximately 80% of Annandale's graduates pursue additional educational opportunities beyond the high school level.

The key to Annandale High School's success has been a faculty whose dedication is beyond question, a student body whose interests range from athletics to zoology, and community support which is unparalleled in Fairfax County. Driven by its rich history and traditions, Annandale students and staff maintain a focus on the future.

Twenty-fifth Anniversary of Annandale High School 1954-1979

A Historical Sketch

Although Annandale High School is celebrating its 25th anniversary the community it serves dates back several hundred years. The community of Annandale had a humble beginning as an Indian village and later became a trading post where settlers and Indians bartered for goods. It is believed that the small settlement was named by English immigrants after a Scottish town by the same name.

Among Annandale's first businesses was the small tollhouse established late in the 13th century on the Little River Turnpike. This same tollhouse served as a voting place.

The Annandale area is rich in Civil War history and legend. Interestingly enough, the community voted to join the Confederacy, and control of the area was constantly changing hands during the early war years. Colonel John D. Mosby launched numerous raids on the Annandale area against Union communications and wagon trains. It is highly possible that the present grounds of Annandale High School were the scene of some of the action.

Modern Annandale had its beginning after World War II when the diary and agricultural regions of Fairfax County were being eliminated to make room for a growing metropolitan population. Due to its strategic location as the origin of Columbia Pike, Gallows Road, and Backlick Road, plus its proximity to the proposed Circumferential Highway, Annandale became a desired area for homes and businesses.

A new high school was needed in the Annandale area to relieve the overcrowded Fairfax and Mount Vernon High Schools. On October 26, 1951, Fairfax County purchased twenty-two acres on Ravensworth Road from Mr. and Mrs. Gareth M. Neville for $22,196.50. Federal funds in the amount of $850,000 and county funds of $831,518.65 were allocated for the building. Willegoos and Chase were the architects, and Blake Construction Company was the contractor. Annandale High School became a reality on September 1, 1954, when 1,000 students moved in from Fairfax and Mount Vernon High Schools. At this time there were only five other high schools in the county.

The staff of Annandale was headed by Mr. Ralph E. Buckley. The original building was designed for a capacity of 800 students. It was, therefore, evident that there would be no room the next year for the eighth grade and new pupils. A contract for a twelve-room addition was given to Wayne Construction Company with a completion date for the work set for August 1, 1955. Mr. Robert Phipps, who later moved to W. T. Woodson High School, was assistant principal in 1954; and Mrs. Sarah Lory was the director of guidance. The first year the junior class was the top class in Annandale with Mr. Roy Fisher and Mrs. Elizabeth Ames as sponsors.

SCA, under its first president, Mr. Mike Bishop, drew up the first constitution and honor code for Annandale High School. It was the "Atomic Era," and the students chose "Atoms" as their school's nickname. The Red and White teams came through with a total of $9,400 from the magazine drive. The school yearbook, "The Antenna," became a reality. The newspaper operated briefly under the name "Annandale Press." In May of 1955 a beautifully printed paper was put out under its permanent name, "The A-Blast."

The new Annandale band won its first trophy in the Annandale Day Parade in 1954. The choirs received a number one rating in the District IV Music Festival. Annandale's first dramatic production, "Our Town," was a big success.

The following clubs were started: French Club, Latin Club, Spanish Club, Key Club, Art Club, Debate, Future Homemakers of America, Rifle Club, Pep Club, and Chess Club. A language festival was held with projects, skits, exhibits, and foods from different foreign countries.

The dances held in the first year were The Poppy Ball, Winter Wonderland, Moonlight Magic, May Day, and the Junior Prom. Two of the most popular dances were the jitterbug and the bunny hop.

The beautiful "Annandale Alma Mater" was written. The meadow and tree referred to in the original version no longer stand. They have been eliminated by progress.

In its second year, 1955-56, Annandale began to shed its rural reputation, as it was rapidly becoming Fairfax County's largest high school as well as its showpiece. The new additions raised the capacity to 1250. The concert band had new red and white uniforms. Annandale participated in the first choral clinic in the state in February of 1956. There was a new football stadium, bleachers, and a scoreboard. The first Sadie Hawkins dance was held with emphasis on the Charleston. Clubs added that year included Future Teachers of America, Future Business Leaders of America, College Board, Travel Club, Astronomy and Angling. Annandale High has its first graduation, with 135 seniors receiving their diplomas.

The year 1956-57 was the year of the "temporary," "permanent" East Wing Annex. Mr. W. T. Baker and Mr. Lawrence Sawyer were the new assistant principals. Senior Follies were held, making it possible for the seniors to go to New York. The SCA put out the first handbook. The concert choir made its first appearance in its robes. Boys' Chorus, National Senior Honor Society, French Honor Society, Bible Club, and Road Raskels were added.

Nine classrooms, new administrative offices, and a library with 9,675 volumes were the new additions when school opened the 1957-58 term. Although these additions raised the capacity to 1,525, Annandale had an enrollment of 2,016 students. Our first foreign exchange student was Gurun Jurs from Austria. The varsity football team under Coach Ed Henry was added in conjunction with Distributive Education.

In 1958-59 the football team won its second straight Fairfax County championship and did not play a single game at Annandale. The main project for the Atom Boosters was to raise funds for stadium lights for use during the following season. Mike Haycock became Annandale High's first All-American football player. Spanish Honor Society, Tri-Hi-Y, Radio Club and Jet Club were added. The Girls' Varsity Basketball team became the first undefeated athletic team at Annandale High School. The same year graduation was moved to Lisner Auditorium.

"Fall-Out," the literary magazine, became the regular publication in 1959-60. Annandale's football team reigned as the Northern Virginia District Champions. Wrestling became a varsity sport. Russian Club, International Club, Vocational Office Training, Latin Honor Society, and Quill and Scroll were organized. The first homecoming game and dance were held in October of 1959. The first musical, "The Mikado," was presented in May by the music and drama departments. The track team, displaying excellent training on the new cinder track, won its first championship. This was the last year for the eighth grade at Annandale High School.

In 1960-61 the football team won its fourth straight Fairfax County football championship. Mr. James Finch and Dr. Aubrey Keesee were the new assistant principals. German, Modern Dance, Art Guild, Chemistry and Mineralogy Clubs were added. Annandale's music and drama departments presented "Brigadoon." Bob Blankenbaker was Annandale's first state track champion.

In 1961-62 Annandale's student body had grown to 2,248. This was more than the building could house. The only solution was to use the old Lincolnia Elementary School for the 700 freshmen. Twelve staff members were placed at the Lincolnia Annex. Shuttle buses were run between Annandale and the Annex. Mr. Larry Klinger became assistant principal upon the death of Dr. Keesee. The new dance was the Twist. "Knights of Song" was the musical presentation this year. Graduation was moved to Constitution Hall and was to remain the site for commencement exercises until 1972.

In 1962-63 the opening of the W. T. Woodson High School gave needed relief to the overcrowded Annandale facilities. The National Thespian Society originated this year, with activities including drama productions and workshops. The "temporary," "permanent" East Wing was made permanent and joined to the main building. "Bye, Bye Birdie" was a musical success. The varsity basketball and wrestling teams posted fine seasonal records. Jerry Mullins became Annandale's first state wrestling champion.

In 1963-64 Annandale celebrated its first decade of service to the community. Of the original forty-seven staff members twenty remained. The bands and chouses were delighted with their new quarters. The band went to the World's Fair in New York in May. "My Fair Lady" was the musical presentation. This was a year of planning to increase the school to a capacity of 2,000. To accomplish this, thirty additional classrooms, a new library, and a new cafeteria were to be added for the 1965-66 term. Mr. Robert Davis, who went on to become principal of Chantilly Secondary, assumed the role of assistant principal in March.

The year 1964-65 was a year of construction. It was a common thing to see bulldozers, cranes, materials, and hundreds of workmen on the premises. "Carousel" was the musical.

The year 1965-66 was a year of excitement for Annandale High as the school won its first state football championship by defeating Granby High by 20-0. Neil Ellis was selected Governor of Boy's State. The English and Science departments moved into the newly constructed additions. The wrestling team won its first regional championship. "Finian's Rainbow" was the musical. This was Mr. Buckley's final year as principal of Annandale, as he was soon to become Assistant Superintendent of School Services.

In September of 1966 Annandale High began its thirteenth year of service to the community under a new principal, Mr. James G. Finch. Colonel Finley T. Clarke, Mr. Walter Siemens, and James E. Clark were the new assistant principals. Mr. Bob Hardage took over the reins as football coach. The football and wrestling teams continued their winning streaks. There were eleven merit finalists, a new record for Annandale. Mu Alpha Theta, the mathematics honor society, and the Russian Honor Society were established. District and state honors were won in debate, forensics, and in drama. The "It's Academic" team placed third in the metropolitan area and garnered the highest accumulative score in the history of the program. Steve Hall was named Mr. FBLA for Virginia. "Kiss Me Kate" was the spring musical.

In the year 1967-68 Annandale High School was evaluated by the Virginia Committee of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. For four days a team of thirty-four educators evaluated the school. When it was all over, Annandale had received an overall rating of between four (very good) and five (excellent). The football team won its second state championship and was ranked number 3 in the nation. The wrestling team-with three "All State" wrestlers-continued its winning streak and was runner-up for State Wrestling Championship for a second year straight. Wendi Sylvester was elected as Annandale's first female SCA president. She was also elected as Governor of Girls' State. The school publications, debate, drama and forensics won honors. "Camelot" was the musical and received excellent press. Fairfax County Schools were divided into four administrative areas.

The school year 1968-69 saw the football team's winning streak end at 38 games as a result of a 25-24 loss to Stuart High School. There were 15 Merit Finalists and 28 Letters of Commendation. Twenty-five percent of the graduating class were members of the National Honor Society. A fine musical, "Carnival," was produced despite the absence of the old pro, Harold Connell. The symphonic band and chorus received much acclaim for their work. The Debate Team won the district Rotary Club Trophy for the second year straight.

The school year 1969-70 was a year of change and greater involvement of the community in school affairs. The traditional Fairfax County dress code was dropped. Girls were permitted to wear slacks to school for the first time. Despite changes in the physical appearance of the students and faculty many exciting things happened. At the top of the list was the SELC program where for three days students attended a new kind of school taught by citizens in the community, other students, and faculty members. Annandale was ranked as the number one math school in Virginia as a result of the spring math tests. The Symphonic Band received superior ratings in both regional and Mid-Atlantic competitions. An excellent musical, "Music Man," not only showed a profit, but also drew from the talents in the community.

In 1970-71 the administration established a sub-school program which had a lot of merit. The lengthy seven and a quarter hour school day was modified to a six and a half hour day. This provided increased time for faculty to work with students. There were seven valedictorians, all of whom achieved a 4.0 average for four years of high school. The math team won the Inter-High Math League competition for the third time in five years. A fantastic "Hello, Dolly" musical was presented. The "A-Blast" won a fifth straight All American award. The English elective program was begun. Mr. James Pattisall joined the staff as an assistant principal.

The academic year 1971-72 was an exceptionally good year for Annandale High. Thirty percent of the graduating class had at least a B average. The state Betty Crocker Award winner was Mary Gingell. The athletic teams won District Championships in football, basketball, cross country, golf, track, girls' basketball and softball. Again there were seven valedictorians, each with a 4.0 average for four years. The musical, "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" was well received by the community. Graduation moved from Constitution Hall to the new Wolf Trap pavilion. A new media center was created where instructional materials could be produced and classes could be held. A maintenance and repair shop and a new "all weather" track were begun for completion by September of 1972. "Commitment to Education" became a part of the school.

During the year 1972-73 the football team had to play thirteen games to win its third state championship. Once again there were seven valedictorian students, each with a 4.0 average. Both boys' and girls' athletic teams continued to win district honors. The Symphonic Band took part in the 1,976-member Inauguration Band, "The Greatest Marching Band in History." The Algebra Team was born and became a model for further team approaches. The new media center and maintenance and repair shop were welcomed by the school. There were two musicals, "Guys and Dolls" and "The Fantasticks." Planning began for renovation and modernization of four high schools; this included Annandale High. Departmental awards were given for the first time to students who had made the greatest contributions to those departments.

On September 4, 1973, Annandale began its twentieth year of service. Mr. Darrell Fleming joined us as an assistant principal. The SCA, under the leadership of its president-Lorraine Brown-and its sponsor-Mrs. Gay Wilkes-planned a special celebration. The theme was "Where Have We Been? Where Are We Going?" The entire Annandale High School community joined in the festivities. Reflection over the two decades of the school's operation disclosed that Fairfax County could be proud of Annandale's accomplishments. Not only was 1973-74 a year of reflection but also one of planning for the passage of the June 12, 1973 Bond Referendum. From this Referendum would come renovation of the auditorium-lights, sound, air-conditioning, projection booth, etc.-updating of the heating and fire alarm systems, and renovation of the media center. It was a building year in athletics. Despite good showings in football, hockey, basketball, girls' gymnastics and softball, Annandale was only able to win a co-championship in district baseball and honors in the "Six Flags Over Georgia" competition. They also won a number one rating for performance in the Mid-Atlantic competition. "Bye, Bye Birdie," which had been presented in the spring of 1963 was successfully repeated as the annual musical. Selective scheduling for classes was inaugurated in the spring of 1974.

During the 1974-74 school year Annandale started the third decade of operation. To help accomplish the goal of greater school/community involvement in the decision-making process, "Glasses Classes" were attended by faculty members and instituted in their own respective classrooms. This provided outlets for student concerns over societal and school problems. The math team won the Inter-High Math League competition for the fourth time in nine years. The new greenhouse--a memorial to Harry O. Keller who was tragically killed on Interstate 66 in March 1973-was dedicated on May 8, 1975. This provided botanical facilities for a new Plant Science course, as well as for the biology classes. There were twelve valedictorians, each of whom achieved a 4.0 average for high school. "Godspell," the spring musical, was a sell-out. The athletic teams were co-champions in district football, district champions in cross-country, and state runners-up in girls' swimming. The "Filament" calendar was given national recognition. Although the November 1974 Bond Referendum would have provided Annandale with $2.4 million for the second phase of the renewal program, it was defeated. A thorough assessment of the instructional facility requirements of the school was conducted. This plan was not to come to fruition until June of 1977.

The Bicentennial year-1975/1976-found Annandale with its largest enrollment to date: 2,383. It was a good academic year as the school produced a national winner in the NCTE Achievement Awards Writing Contest, a state winner in the Westinghouse Science and Scholarship Awards 35th Annual Science Talent Search, and the math and English teams placed second and third respectively in the Superintendent's Academic Program. The "Filament" calendar received national recognition for the second year straight. The Symphonic Band won the only gold medal presented in the Disney World competition. The varsity football team brought credit to the school and community not only for its runner-up State Championship but also for its excellence of play and sportsmanship. The auditorium and media center renovation, the updating of the heating plant, and the installation of the new fire alarm system were completed in the spring of 1976. The Class of 1976 returned to Constitution Hall for its graduation due to the unavailability of Wolf Trap, which was now in use for its own productions earlier in the season. Mr. Bonner Allee became assistant principal.

During the 1976-77 year Annandale participated in "self-study" and prepared for the fall of 1977 visit by the Virginia Committee of the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges. It was a time to evaluate the instructional and extra-curricular programs, community support, and the physical plant. The majority of the athletic teams posted winning seasons with the football and soccer teams declared district champions. Sandy McGuire became our first Girls' State Track Champion by winning the mile. Mr. Robert Pence was promoted to assistant principal. The student body set a new state record in magazine sales by selling $23,400. This was the second state record for our school. Our math team placed third in the Superintendent's Academic Program. There was a national winner in the Westinghouse 36th Annual Science Talent Search, and the Symphonic Band was named one of the top 200 high school bands in America. "Fiddler on the Roof" was superbly presented as the school musical. There were 545 graduates in the Class of 1977, which made it the largest graduating class to date.

The school year 1977-78 proved to be a year for evaluation and planning. On June 14, 1978, Fairfax County voters passed a $19.7 million Bond Referendum. This at long last would provide the $2.5 million needed for the second phase of Annandale's renewal program. This phase called for removal of the metal building-the math wing-and the construction of a two-story wing in its place. The new construction would house an auto mechanics shop, new home economics suite, food service lab, a new electronics and drafting facility, and other necessary improvements, which would place Annandale on a par with any county high school. The visit by the evaluation committee-highlighted by the community/school opening banquet-was most successful. The SGA-no longer the S"C"A-spearheaded another state record-breaking magazine drive ($27,000) along with the improvement of student activities through the Student Activities Committee, STAC. It was a year of "almosts" for the athletic teams, as the majority posted winning seasons. Annandale became the second state high school with a female athletic director with the appointment of Miss Rachael Peters. The "A-Blast" won its 12th straight "All American" award. "Music Man" proved to be an excellent choice for the spring musical. The ACT I Program to deal with the academically unsuccessful student was inaugurated. The Class of 1978 graduated without having a single male class officer in its four-year history.

On September 5, 1978, Annandale began its 25th year of service. It continued to be Fairfax County's oldest high school on the original site. Annandale was proud of its silver anniversary as it had an excellent reputation for its academic and extra-curricular activities. It looked forward to greater service in the future. Of the 47 original "plank owners," four still remained: Mr. Bolding, Miss Buck, Mr. Fisher, and Miss Peters.

This text has attempted to bring to you some of the highlights of the first twenty-five years of Annandale High School. From these basic facts it is hoped that the reader will be able to reconstruct and capture the spirit of Annandale High School.

Created June 2003
Updated June 15, 2004
Curator Rebecca Bartelt
Rebecca.Bartelt@fcps.edu