I first entered Stonewall Jackson High School in September of 1963. The three new high schools were just three years old at that time. In the southern end of the county we were especially proud of our school's name. We were named after an esteemed historic figure from our state's past, while the other two county schools, no disrespect intended, were named after a county town and a generic location. Our school was located within view of a house used by Stonewall Jackson as his headquarters, and also the extreme northern end of the Battle of New Market area.
We were a small school. Most people knew each other We developed an esprit de corps through our athletic and music programs. I know because I was part of that!
We had successful sports teams which were supported by the local community. Our marching band was honored to play for the ribbon cutting ceremony at the opening section of Interstate 81 from New Market and for the events for the dedication of the New Market Battle Field – a National landmark. For over 60 years we have been a school rich in history, and as a SJHS alumni I have been proud and honored to be a part of creating that local history.
Now all of a sudden we have been told that we have been wrong about our beloved school for all these years. A handful of people have dictated to a lifelong community with intimate school ties that the name of our school had to be changed. Did they talk to the community which this school has served for years? Did they listen when they did talk? No they found themselves with the power to make the changes and so they did!. While we in the community were treated as persona non grata, our historic school name became wiped off the pages of history.
So for 62 years we have sung the school's alma mater, which I might add was written and composed by the director of the school band, Rosie Orebaugh, an army veteran and local native. The first line is “To You Our Noble High School Which Proudly Bears the Name of Stonewall Jackson”. And now we are told it can no longer bear the name – proudly or otherwise - and we alumni need to shut up and go away.
How would you like it if a few people decided we didn't like your last name for some reason. We would like that college diploma hanging on your office wall taken down because your last name was on it. Also the tombstones of your dead relatives must be removed because we don't like your name on them. WE ARE OFFENDED! After all, as a judge has previously stated, ”You have no standing because you would not be harmed by the changing of your name”. This would be just as wrong and hurtful and should not be tolerated.
The name change of Stonewall Jackson High School was a wrong committed against the community which it serves and this wrong should be made right.
James A. Thomas 111
SJHS Class of 1968
I enjoyed reading your letter. Thank you so much! We also need to remind everyone that Stonewall Jackson's troops camped on Rudes Hill which was considered a significant strategic location in the Civil War. It was reasonable and fitting to name SJHS after the history of this particular area. Mountain View is a generic name that does not reflect our history or set us apart from any other area in the world and is void of meaning or tradition to our community.