The second location of the state-sponsored Union Academy was built here in 1868 after the first structure on South Main Street was burned during the Civil War. The city of Clinton took over operation of the academy when Clinton City Schools was established in 1895. A new building was constructed in 1903 and became known as Clinton High School. In 1925, the city turned over operation of the high school to the county and a new building was constructed next door. The old school building then became Clinton Grammar School and was replaced by the current Clinton Elementary School building in 1961.