Class of '58 honored by Hall school board

GAINESVILLE - Hall County school board members Monday night honored a graduating class from 50 years ago that never graduated from their high school.

That's because South Hall High School was never completed in time for graduation in 1958, according to class president Billy Emmett.

"It was anticipated that the schools that were under construction would soon be ready for occupancy, but that never came to pass," Emmett said.

Emmett recalled the would-be South Hall seniors attended the old Flowery Branch and the old Lyman Hall high schools in split sessions.

Graduation ceremonies took place at the Gainesville Civic Center.

South Hall High School eventually became South Hall Middle School, and Johnson High School became the high school for the area.

Emmett and fellow class member Billy Reed were on hand for the resolution; Reed said the class of '58 plans to gather for a reunion on May 24 at the Royal Lakes Country Club.

Seventy of the original 94 members of the graduating class will attend, along with 10 staff members and the principal, C.W. Davis. A memorial service is also planned for 14 class members who passed away.