Asberry School

Located in northeastern Dewitt County, Asberry School served the educational needs of the African American community in Yoakum beginning in 1930. Formerly known as the Yoakum Negro Public School, it formed from the consolidation of two African American schools in 1920. Tradition states that a new school building was erected on this site with money from the Rosenwald Fund, a philanthropic endeavor developed by Sears, Roebuck and Company president Julius Rosenwald to improve the quality of African American education in the South. The school initially housed ten grades, but soon offered the full twelve. In 1948, it was renamed Asberry High School in honor of its principal, Professor J.D. Asberry. Professor Asberry was remembered for a saying proudly displayed on campus: "Never Spend a Dollar When a Dime will do." The school remained an African American school until integration, and in 1966 the last senior class graduated. It remained in the current independent school system and was used as a facility on the intermediate campus. Asberry School was a focal point in the African American community for educational needs and social functions, providing a central meeting place for religious groups, training opportunities in canning, cooking, and agriculture, and disaster relief. This historic institution stands as a lasting memorial to the dedicated principals, teachers, custodians, and alumni who fostered and supported the community through education.

Yoakum, Texas · United States