Fenger High School Records

Historical Note

Fenger High School, formerly called Curtis High School, first opened in 1903 as a branch of Curtis Elementary School and was located on the corner of 115th and State streets. Both elementary and high schools shared a principal, and total enrollment numbered only 80 students.

In 1905, the high school was placed on the accredited list of Chicago schools. Three years later, the first class, consisting of only thirteen students, was graduated. In 1910, in honor of the noted surgeon, the school was renamed the Christian Fenger High School.

As student enrollment and faculty members increased, it was evident that the old structure was no longer adequate to meet the needs of the growing body. Construction began on a larger, modern facility, and in 1926, the new building at the present site of 112th and Wallace streets was completed.

Throughout its history, Fenger High School has had a long tradition of school and community involvement by the student body. Their participation in the many activities of the school’s clubs and organizations is reflected in the material that comprises the collection.

Scope and Content

The majority of the collection is comprised of the yearbook, the Fenger Courier. Also present are scrapbooks and photographs taken at a 1946 school dance.

Arrangement/Series Description

The collection is arranged into two series.

Series 1: Publications, 1925-1987

This large series of published materials includes one issue of the student newspaper, The Fenger News, an anniversary brochure written by staff and faculty members on the tenth anniversary of occupancy of the present school building, and a number of the school yearbooks, the Fenger Courier (which in its early years was published twice yearly). Also appearing are reunion programs and a football schedule.

Series 2: Scrapbooks of Mrs. Beryl Fenstemacher, 1952-1972

This series is comprised of three scrapbooks put together by Mrs. Fenstemacher throughout her career as English teacher at Fenger High School. The scrapbooks contain photographs of students and faculty at various school and social events. Also included are announcements, invitations and programs relating to the activities of the school. The scrapbooks clearly reflect the active role Mrs. Fenstemacher played in the activities of her students on a professional as well as social level.

Related Material

Photo CRCC 1.239, from the Calumet Region Community Records, is the groundbreaking ceremony for Fenger High School, 1924.

Container List

Series 1: Publications

Series 2: Scrapbooks of Mrs. Beryl Fenstemacher, 1952-1972

Photographs, 1946

There are 28 photographs of a dance for Fenger High School students at the Shoreland Hotel, 55th Street and Lakeshore Drive, on January 10, 1946. The photos are entirely unidentified, and consist of three types of shots: individual couples, posed; multiple couples, posed; and candid photographs taken on the dance floor.