The minute records of the Centreville District School Board were transcribed by members of the Providence Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), Fairfax Station, Virginia. Chapter members generously donated their time and expertise to create a line-by-line transcription to preserve the integrity and style of the original writing. Because the original documents were frequently written in shorthand, the transcribed text has been converted to longhand on this webpage for accessibility, readability, and searchability purposes. The transcribed minute book created by the Providence Chapter, NSDAR is available for download below in PDF format. Photographs of the original record book pages are included in the PDF.

August 4, 1904

The Centreville District School Board met at Clifton Station, Virginia, and, with Superintendent M. D. Hall present and presiding, made the following organization: John D. Garrett was made Chairman, and Robert R. Buckley was made Clerk of the Board. Superintendent Hall then gave the new Board an outline of the work for the fall term of the 1904-05 school year. The Board then, with J. D. Garrett, R. R. Buckley, and E. H. Jones present, elected the following teachers for the following schools:

The School Board adjourned; the date of the next meeting subject to the call of the chairman. Signed, Robert R. Buckley, Clerk

Note:

• In the alphanumeric numbering tradition used in Fairfax County Public Schools, numerals were used to designate schools for white children (School 1, 2, 3, etc.) and letters were used to designate schools for African-American children (School A, B, C., etc.). The schools also had names commonly used by the community (Clifton, Legato, Pender, etc.). The Clifton School listed above had two classrooms and two teachers, hence the designation 4a and 4b.

August 9, 1906

The Centreville District School Board met at Clifton Station, Virginia. Present were John D. Garrett, Chairman, R. R. Buckley, and R. A. Buckley. The following teachers were appointed for the 1906-07 school term:

Division Superintendent M. D. Hall was present at the meeting. The meeting adjourned. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk of the Board

September 22, 1906

The Centreville District School Board met at Clifton Station, Virginia. Present were John D. Garrett, Chairman, R. R. Buckley, and R. A. Buckley. Miss Jesse Moran was appointed teacher for Red Hill School Number 1. Miss Nellie Jones was appointed teacher for Centreville Number 2. Mr. William Red declined. The Board then contracted with the following teachers for a term of six months beginning September 24, 1906:

Miss Button declined the appointment for Pleasant Valley School Number 9. The Board adjourned to meet next on September 29, 1906. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk

October 13, 1906

The Centreville District School Board met at Clifton Station, Virginia. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman pro tempore, R. R. Buckley, Clerk. The Board contracted with Miss Jessie Moran for teacher for School Number 1. The Board adjourned. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk

November 10, 1906

The Centreville District School Board met at Clifton Station, Virginia. Present were John D. Garrett, Chairman, and R. R. Buckley, Clerk. The Board appointed and contracted with Miss Sallie V. Ashford to teach School Number 9 Pleasant Valley for the term of six months. The Board adjourned. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk

August 17, 1907

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District. Present were John D. Garrett, Chairman, R. R. Buckley, Clerk, and R. A. Buckley. The following teachers were appointed:

The following School Houses were ordered to be repaired and painted: Numbers 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10. The School Board adjourned. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk

September 28, 1907

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board. Present were John D. Garrett, Chairman, R. R. Buckley, Clerk, and R. A. Buckley. The following teachers were appointed on August 17, 1907, and were contracted with:

Miss Rosamond Burke was appointed for School Number 1, but she declined and there was no other applicant. Miss M. A. Payne was appointed for School Number 5, but she declined and there was no other applicant. Miss Lena Hayden was appointed for School Number 9, but she declined and there was no other applicant. P. E. Hughes was appointed for School Number A, but he declined and Mattie E. Sadler was appointed instead. Angella A. Botts was appointed for School Number D, but not having her certificate she was continued until such time as she could get her certificate. Bills amounting to $371.10 ordered paid. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk

Note:

• The levels of certification (First, Second, and Third), are types of teaching certificates and should not be confused with grade levels commonly found in elementary schools today. Levels of certification commonly held by Fairfax County Public Schools teachers during this era were, from highest to lowest, Collegiate Professional, Normal Professional, First Grade, Second Grade, and Third Grade.

October 7, 1907

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board. Present were R. R. Buckley, Clerk, and R. A. Buckley, Chairman pro tempore. Ellen Frenzel was appointed and contracted with to teach School Number 1 at a salary of $26.00 per month. Sadie C. Moran was appointed and contracted with to teach School Number 5 at a salary of $26.00 per month. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk

October 14, 1907

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, pro tempore, and R. R. Buckley, Clerk. Miss Siebert Noon, who was also present at the meeting, was elected and contracted as teacher for the Clifton High School at a salary of $50.00 per month for eight months. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk

October 21, 1907

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board. Present were J. D. Garrett, Chairman, and R. R. Buckley, Clerk. Miss Lulu B. Edwards was elected teachers for School Number 9 and contracted with. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk

November 8, 1907

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board. Present were J. D. Garrett, Chairman, and R. R. Buckley, Clerk. Miss E. Pearl Payne was appointed to teach School Number 9, with the term of her contract to begin on November 11, 1907, Miss Lulu B. Edwards having resigned and her resignation having been accepted. Signed, R. R. Buckley, Clerk

March 20, 1908

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board at Centreville. The following officers were elected: R. A. Buckley, Chairman, and John D. Garrett was made Clerk. The warrants for furnishing wood (firewood) for the several schools were ordered paid out of the district fund. The School Board adjourned; the date of the next meeting subject to the call of the chairman. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk, and R. A. Buckley

July 28, 1908

The Centreville District School Board met at Centreville, Virginia. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, James Harris, and John D. Garrett, also County Superintendent of Schools Colonel M. D. Hall came in at a late hour and gave some valuable advice and information to the Board. Miss Lula W. Payne was appointed teacher at the Crouch School. Miss Grace Whitten was appointed to the upper room (Miss Ford) in the Clifton School. Miss Elizabeth J. Swetnam was appointed to the Primary department in the Clifton School. The Clerk was directed to write Miss Sh[--]ky that we would give her $60.00 per month to teach high school. The School Board adjourned to meet at Fairfax Station on Wednesday, August 5, 1909, at 9 o’clock. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk, and R. A. Buckley

Notes: 

• At this point in time, the school in Clifton was a two-story building with two classrooms, one on each floor. The Clifton School is believed to be the site of the first public high school in Fairfax County.
• The handwriting of the surname “Sh[--]ky” is very difficult to decipher. One interpretation is Shroky.

August 6, 1908

Pursuant to agreement, we met at Fairfax Station on Thursday, August 6, 1908. Present were James Harris, John D. Garrett and Colonel M. D. Hall, County Superintendent of Schools. We reviewed the ground where they want the Popes Head School moved to and on careful consideration we decided to let the school try another term on the present location and if they do not maintain a lawful school average we will take action early next year for the removal of said school. The Superintendent and Clerk went over their accounts and found them to agree. On motion moved and carried, the Board decided to reduce the salaries on several schools as the funds are not enough to pay the same.

The School Board adjourned; the date of the next meeting subject to the call of the chairman. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk, R. A. Buckley

August 25, 1908

A meeting of the School Trustees of Centreville District was held at Fairfax Courthouse. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, James Harris, and John D. Garrett. Miss Ella M. Ballard was appointed to teach at the Legato School. Miss Barbara Cross was appointed to teach at the Centreville School. Miss Sue J. Ratcliff was appointed to teach at the Chantilly School. Miss Julia Ford was appointed to teach at the Elgin School. Miss Sue Anderson was appointed to teach at the Crouch School; all of whom the Clerk was to notify of their appointments. That makes all white schools filled and all but one Colored. On motion, the School Board adjourned. Signed R. A. Buckley, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

September 5, 1908

At a meeting called by the Chairman, the School Trustees of Centreville District met at Clifton and viewed the proposition of the Lee District School Trustees in regard to the Fairfax Station situation; and it was unanimously rejected as Centreville District is in no shape for another school. On motion, the Board adjourned to meet on September 19, 1908. Signed, R. A. Buckley, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

January 4, 1909

At a called meeting of the School Board held at Clifton Station, Virginia. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, James Harris, John D. Garrett, and Superintendent M.D. Hall. The situation in the district was talked over and seemed to be in very good shape, save as to the Red Hill School. Superintendent Hall was requested to go there and view the situation, and if he thought it needed closing to do so. It was decided to employ Mrs. Rebecca Dabney as Teacher for Blk. Rck (Black Rock) at a salary of $26.00 per month and a term of three months. On motion, the Board adjourned. Signed, R. A. Buckley, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

July 14, 1909

A meeting of the School Trustees of Centreville District was held at Centreville, Virginia. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, James Harris, and John D. Garrett. On motions by R. A. Buckley, Mr. Harris, and Mr. Garrett, the following teachers were appointed:

On motion, Mr. James Harris was made a committee to contract for wood (firewood) for Pender, Legato, and Popes Head schools. Mr. R. A. Buckley was made a committee to contract for wood for Clifton, Big Woods, Elgin and Crouch schools. Mr. Garrett was made a committee to contract for wood for Cub Run, Centreville, Chantilly, and Pleasant Valley schools. It was moved and carried that we repair the school houses at Centreville. It was moved and carried that we purchase a bell for the Pender School, and Mr. Harris was appointed to see to it. On motion, the School Board adjourned. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk, and R. A. Buckley, Chairman

Notes:

• No salary was recorded for Minnie E. Hughes. Black Rock, or “Blk. Rock” as it appeared in the minutes, is also found in the historic records of Centreville District as the Cub Run School.
• Big Woods, possibly also named Barnes Woods, is believed to be a school for African-American children. It is theorized that this is the name of the public school that was held in the original Mount Zoar Baptist Church building that was once located on Hope Park Road.

July 20, 1910 (Wednesday)

Chairman R. A. Buckley, John D. Garrett, Clerk, and James Harris met at Centreville to appoint teachers and for a general District School Board meeting. The Clerk read the minutes of the last meeting of the Board and, there being no objections, the minutes were ratified. Upon the matter of a petition signed by certain people of the Town of Clifton, it was unanimously decided to turn the petition down as unworthy of the notice of our Board. We do not appoint teachers of questionable character to train the minds of the young. On motion, Miss Anna V. Kemp was appointed Principal of the Clifton School at a salary of $40.00 per month, Miss Victoria McCoy was elected to fill the High School room at a salary of $50.00 per month, and Miss Grace Whitten was appointed as teacher of the Primary department at a salary of $40.00 per month, Mr. Garrett dissenting to this appointment. Other appointments were as follows:

It was ordered that James Harris have the Legato School repaired if it costs $100. On motion, the Board adjourned. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

August 14, 1911

The Centreville District School Board met at Clifton Station, Virginia. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, James Harris, Superintendent M. D. Hall, and John D. Garrett, Clerk. There were four bids received and opened by the Board for the erection of a new school building in the Town of Clifton. One was made by O. H. Evans of Manassas; his bid being $6,415.00 completed by the end of the year. One was made by James Haynes of Burke Station; his bid was the lowest received being $4,408.00 with metal shingles instead of tin. One was made by Dawson Brothers; their bid being $5,965.00. And the last bid was made by T. O. McMullen of the Town of Clifton; his bid being $4,440.00, to be completed by November 20, 1911. All of the said bids being in excess of the amount the architect named, $3,000.00, they were all rejected and the matter was left open until the meeting of the County School Board next week. The following teachers were appointed to the following schools:

A petition was presented to the Board against Miss McCoy being Principal of the Clifton School and after discussion and reflection the Board deemed it unwise and unsafe at this late day in the year to try to find another teacher for this position. The Clerk was ordered to pay Henry Foutz $10.00 for contract for clearing the Clifton School lot. And on motion, the Board adjourned to meet at the County School Board meeting. Signed R. A Buckley, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

Undated, 1911

At a meeting of the School Board of Centreville District, the following teachers were contracted
with for the session of 1911 and 1912:

On motion, the Board adjourned. Signed by R. A Buckley, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

September 15, 1911

The bids were opened at Clifton and four bids were in and the Board reserved the right to accept or reject at the end of ten days. The bids were as follows:

Signed, R. A Buckley, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

September 26, 1911

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District, Fairfax County, Virginia. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, Colonel M. D. Hall, Superintendent, and John D. Garrett. It was agreed by the Board and Mr. Hall that we, in view the Patrons of the Cub Run Colored School, give the position as teacher to Florence M. Naylor for the session of 1911 and 1912 at a salary of $26.00 per month. The Clifton High School building was taken up and the contract was awarded to T. O. McMullen for the price of $3,500.00 to be completed, if practicable, by January 1, 1912. The construction contract and agreement were to be drawn by Mr. Hall and sent to McMullen. The Red Hill situation was taken up and discussed and after counting up the children and finding there would not be enough to make the average of 15, it was deemed unwise to open the school at that point as the records show there has not been a lawful school maintained at that school for the last five years. The Superintendent visited the schools of Clifton and found everything moving along first class. Mr. Pucket was contracted with to bore a well upon the schoolhouse lot at $1.25 per foot, he to furnish everything - casing, etc. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

Notes:

• The “patrons” of a school were typically the parents of the children who attended the school, but the group could also include community members with a vested interest in the school. In some communities, the patrons organized into a “School League” – a group akin to a modern parent-teacher association. 
• In this record we learn that pupil attendance at the Red Hill School had fallen to the point where the school was in danger of being closed. Public schools in Virginia were required to maintain a minimum average daily attendance number in order to remain in operation. Public schools that fell below that “lawful average” might be closed for several months, or for years on end, or close permanently.

March 22, 1912

A meeting of School Board of Centreville District. Present were: R. A. Buckley, Chairman, James Harris, John D. Garrett, Clerk, and County Superintendent M. D. Hall. The question of receiving the house (Clifton School) came up and we thought that the contractor had not done his work as well as he ought to have done and did not use as good material as he ought to have used but still, considering the price, it was deemed unwise to raise any fig or trouble, but Mr. McMullen was called in and agreed to fix steps and posts on back porch and several minor things which were out of shape. The citizens and patrons of Clifton and vicinity gave to the Superintendent and Board of School Trustees a banquet which was presided over by our Supervisor, R. R. Buckley, Esquire, and speeches were made by Superintendent Hall, Professor Button, Mr. George C. Round, Mr. Saulsbury, Dr. Roup of Eastern College and Dr. Stone (Ormond Stone) of the University of Virginia, all of whom made good speeches. The corner stone was laid by the Lodge of Masons at Clifton, Brother James Kincheloe, Master. The Board adjourned. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

September 21, 1912

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, Superintendent M. D. Hall, and John D. Garrett, Clerk. The following teachers were appointed as follows:

The teachers at Chantilly, Clifton, Legato, Neverlet, and Popes Head entered upon their duties on September 23, 1912. We decided and bought 50 cords of wood from James C. Kincheloe. On motion, the Board adjourned. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

Notes: 

• “Neverlet” was a home near Clifton owned by the Compton family. It was not uncommon at this time for schools to temporarily operate out of a home or tavern.
• In the table above, the teachers of the Hughesville and Cub Run Schools were only contracted for a five-month period. By the early 20th century, the length of the school year for white children had been extended to six months, but the school year for African-American children was only five months long. In some magisterial districts, if additional funding was available, the school term might be extended to seven or even eight months for white children. Such extensions were rare in the schools for African-American children, and typically only occurred when parents pooled their money and hired the teacher to stay on for a longer term.

November 9, 1912

The Centreville District School Board met at Clifton, Virginia. Present were W. W. Swart, R. A. Buckley, John D. Garrett, and Superintendent M. D. Hall. It was moved and seconded that W. W. Swart shall have two outhouses built at Legato School and send the bill to the Clerk of this Board. It was unanimously agreed and the Clerk was instructed to draw a warrant in favor of Miss Velma Perkins out of the District fund for her board and expenses while here at School Number 9, which was accordingly done, and the warrant was drawn for $20.90, and she has gone to her house (schoolhouse). On motion, it was agreed to open the Elgin School with Miss Nora Webb as teacher at a salary of $35.00 per month and the Clerk was directed to contract with her just as soon as she gets her statement from Superintendent Hall. Miss A. B. Carter of Norfolk was given School Number 9 at a salary of $35.00 per month and the Clerk was directed to contract with her a soon as the statement arrives from Superintendent Hall. It was ordered that Buckley Brothers buy four coal oil stoves for use in the Clifton School. It was ordered that the Clerk draw a warrant in favor of Buckley Brothers for $96.80 in full of their account against the school district, and also draw a warrant in favor of Miss E. G. Winfree for $14.24; ten dollars being for the District prize and $4.24 for expenses incurred in fixing for the fair. There being nothing further to engage the attention of the Board, it adjourned to meet at Centreville next time. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

November 25, 1912

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held near Clifton, Virginia. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk of said Board. Complaint having been given the said Garrett of one of the pupils, namely Aubrey Carter of the Centreville School, as being at the school in a drunken condition and not obeying the teacher when she told him to leave the school and thereby causing the teacher (Miss Charlotte McQuade) to have to close her school for the day; and, in view of the fact that the aforesaid young man was suspended last year by the teacher, Miss Barbara Cross, and by the further consideration of the welfare of the school, we the School Trustees of Centreville District do hereby expel the said Aubrey Carter from the aforesaid school and if he shall persist in coming to the schoolhouse there, the Clerk of this Board shall cause his arrest. Done by order of the Board this 25th day of November 1912. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman pro tempore, and J. D. Garrett, Clerk

November 27, 1912

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District held at Fairfax Courthouse. Present were W. W. Swart and John D. Garrett. The matter of B. F. A. Myers entering the Legato Schoolhouse against the desire and wish of W. W. Swart, Trustee, and also of the teacher, Miss Rosie Buckley. It was decided to ask the Dunkards to move out and not cause the Board the trouble to put them out, and W. W. Swart was appointed a committee to fix fasteners on the windows and to securely lock the doors to the building. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

December 28, 1912

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District held at the residence of Mr. W. G. Harrison. The Board went as far as Crouch Schoolhouse and viewed the ground upon which to locate a schoolhouse that will accommodate all the children in that community; and after viewing and reflecting and taking the situation in carefully and with due caution, it was moved by W. W. Swart and seconded by J. D. Garrett that the site for the new schoolhouse be on Mrs. Wells’ hill or as near that point as possible, and John D. Garrett was authorized to purchase two acres of land for said schoolhouse. It was agreed by the Patrons that they would do all the hauling for the schoolhouse if we bought the lumber in Clifton or Manassas. There were several patrons present and discussed some in favor of Mrs. Compton’s offer of two acres at the corner of Centreville and Clifton and Manassas roads, while others thought Mrs. Wells’ hill the best possible place for the building. There being no further business, the Board adjourned to meet at Clifton on December 31, 1912. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

February 22, 1913

A meeting of the District School Board held at Centreville Schoolhouse. Present were W. W. Swart and John D. Garrett. All the Board was duly notified but from some cause the Chairman did not appear. The resignation of Miss D. B. Welsh was accepted and the Clerk was directed to fill her place, and if the teacher selected proved good she was to have the room for next session. And upon considering the fact that Number 1 at Bull Run has done so much better than she has ever done for several years and at the request of Miss Bigelow, the teacher of said school, we hereby agree to give her a term of seven months. The letter of Mr.  Kincheloe was deferred until a full meeting of the Board as it was a matter concerning the Clifton School and our viewing the condition of the Centreville house and furniture. We think that something must be wrong and we respectfully request Superintendent M. D. Hall to come to Centreville and Pender as soon as he can do so. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

March 27, 1913

A meeting of the District School Board of Centreville District held at the residence of W. W. Swart. It was unanimously agreed between Mr. Swart and Garrett that we do not let the Dunkards have the use of the schoolhouse at Legato for Sunday School purposes, in view of the fact that there is a church for such purposes at that place, and the Clerk was directed to forward a copy of these minutes to the Division Superintendent M. D. Hall. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman pro tempore, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

June 28, 1913

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Crouch Schoolhouse. Present were R. A. Buckley, W. W. Swart, M. D. Hall, Superintendent of Schools, and John D. Garrett. The question of locating a schoolhouse came up for consideration and after viewing the different locations and there being a disagreement among the Board, it was unanimously decided by said Board to leave the matter to the people, and the place and time was settled upon July 8, 1913, at Crouch Schoolhouse, 10 a.m. On motion adjourned. Signed by W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

July 8, 1913

The Patrons and School Board of Centreville District and Superintendent M. D. Hall met at Crouch Schoolhouse for the purpose of selecting a site for the schoolhouse. After discussion and talking, it was unanimously agreed to put the house on the land of Mr. Philo Burnett, near the stream of Rocky Run and the Clerk was directed to see if the Board could purchase the land and at what price. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

Undated, 1913 or 1914

The following list of teachers was recorded on pages 28 and 29 of the minute book. This entry appeared after the minutes from July 8, 1913, and before the minutes of January 1914.

January 1914 (No Day)

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board. Mr. W. W. Swart was made Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk, and there being no further business before the Board, adjourned subject to the call of the Chairman. Signed W. W. Swart, Chairman, and J. D. Garrett, Clerk

June 6, 1914

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Clifton Station, Virginia. Present were R. L. Spindle and John D. Garrett, members of said Board, and the following persons: Mrs. M. E. Quigg, Mrs. R. R. Buckley, Mrs. Armond, Mrs. Mantiply, Mr. & Mrs. J. C. Miller, and Mr. Myers. After listening to the different talks by the various ones, the Board took no action in the matter. Adjourned. Signed W. W. Swart, Chairman, and J. D. Garrett, Clerk

June 18, 1914

The Centreville School Board was called to meet at Fairfax Courthouse to view the situation in the Clifton School. Present were R. L. Spindle, M. D. Hall, and J. D. Garrett. The Clerk settled his accounts for the year ending July 1, 1914. On motion R. A. Buckley was given ten dollars for serving as Trustee and the Clerk was directed to draw a warrant for the same. In regard to the Clifton situation it was suggested that Mrs. Hester take another room in the school, but we do not know whether she will or not. On motion adjourned. Signed W. W. Swart, Chairman, and J. D. Garrett, Clerk

September 9, 1914

A meeting of Centreville District School Board at Fairfax Courthouse. Present were W. W. Swart, Chairman, R. L. Spindle and John D. Garrett, together with Colonel M. D. Hall, Lewis Watson, and Mr. Saphiro of Washington, D.C. After carefully going over the Clifton situation in regard to heating the building, we finally gave Mr. Saphiro the contract for putting in new heaters and Mr. Watson to see that he makes a first-class job of the matter, and when completed we are to pay him the sum of $575.00. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

November 27, 1914

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District at Fairfax Court House. Present were R. L. Spindle, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett. It was moved and carried that we sell the old schoolhouse at Centreville and ordered Mr. W. M. Farr to draw the petition to the Court asking that the Board be empowered to sell the building and apply the proceeds to the improvement of the grounds of the new school building. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

Note: 

• The sale of school buildings and land owned by the school boards of the magisterial districts required the approval of a judge presiding in the Circuit Court of Fairfax County.

December 1, 1914

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District held at Clifton Station, Virginia. Present were W. W. Swart, Chairman, R. L. Spindle, and John D. Garrett. The bill of Mr. Lewis Watson was presented to the Board and, after some concessions on the part of Mr. Watson and some explanations in regard to the digging, the Board allowed his pay as per his bill in putting in the new heater at Clifton School. Namely $185.00 paid. Also, the Clerk was ordered to pay Robert Gafney the sum of $2.00 for repair work on Clifton Colored School, and to pay Mathis & Anderson the sum of $3.90 for sawing wood for Clifton School Number 4. There being no further business, adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

April 12, 1915

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District held at the residence of W. W. Swart. Present were W. W. Swart, Chairman, R. L. Spindle, and J. D. Garrett. The request of W. H. Sanger, Clerk of the Brethren Church, for the use of Legato Schoolhouse to hold Sunday School was presented. After due consideration and a great deal of controversy, it was decided not to grant the request, and the Clerk to notify Mr. Sanger of their action. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk of the Board

June 24, 1915

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District held at the residence of John D. Garrett. Present were W. W. Swart, Chairman, County Superintendent M. D. Hall, and John D. Garrett, Clerk. It was unanimously agreed to build a new schoolhouse at Red Hill upon the land recently bought from A. J. Evans and Superintendent Hall was instructed to have the plans for one sent to us at once. The County Superintendent and Board members went over the school census and found we had about the same we had the last time five years ago. It was agreed to appoint the following teachers:

Note:

• In 1891, the School Trustees of Centreville District purchased one acre of land from John Byrne for a school. The school constructed on this property became known as the Red Hill School. In 1903, Byrne sold his farm, also called Red Hill, to A. J. Evans. In the transaction, Byrne did not stipulate that one acre of land had already been sold to the school trustees. In 1915, when the School Trustees of Centreville District purchased two acres of land from A. J. Evans, a portion of the property conveyed by Evans was already owned by the district. The discrepancy was never noticed, likely due to turnover on the School Board.

July 1915 (No Day)

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District held at the Centreville School building. Present were W. W. Swart, Chairman, R. L. Spindle, and John D. Garrett. Visitors – K. C. Spindle. After a general discussion of the teachers proposition, Miss Biddlecomb was elected Principal of the Centreville School, J. D. Garrett dissenting, as Garrett said he was not going to vote for a teacher who was not qualified nor competent to teach the school. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

February 26, 1916

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District. Present were W. W. Swart, Chairman, R. L. Spindle and John D. Garrett. The Chairman stated the object of the meeting was in regard to the library for Chantilly and Centreville. The Clerk stated the money for both schools had been turned over to him and he had turned the same over to the County Treasurer as the law directs, and the reason the libraries had not been ordered was that the District was not able to put up their share of the money; but as soon as we were in shape to do so we would get the libraries. It was decided if Miss Coffey wants to come back for the 1916-17 school year, she was to have the Red Hill School for that session. It was unanimously agreed by the Board that we allow no dancing in the assembly hall at Centreville and Mr. Spindle was instructed to so inform the principal. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

June 3, 1916

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District. Present were R. L. Spindle, W. W. Swart and John D. Garrett. After duly advertising in the Fairfax Herald the time and place of the meeting for the purpose of appointing teachers for the various schools in said District, and after duly considering the applicants, the following were selected:

Elgin, Legato, and Rock Hill schools were passed by for assignment until a suitable teacher could be found for those schools. It was agreed to sell the old school at Centreville at the same time and place we sold the Red Hill schoolhouse and upon the same terms and conditions. On motion we adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

• A note in the margin states: “Centreville School Sold”

June 24, 1917

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District. Present were W. W. Swart, R. L. Spindle, and John D. Garrett. The following teachers were appointed as follows:

On motion, the Board adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

August 1917 (No Day)

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board. Present were W. W. Swart, R. L. Spindle, and John D. Garrett. Resolved that it is the sense of this Board that we do borrow enough money to pay off the indebtedness of this Board, especially the two warrants held by the Fairfax National Bank, one for $1,000.00 and one for $1,125.00 making in all $2,125.00. On motion, the Board adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

December 27, 1917

Since the opening of school, Miss Swann never put in any appearance, so her place has been taken by Mrs. Mathers; also Miss Smith has resigned and we are trying to supply her place with another teacher but as yet have been unsuccessful in securing anyone. Miss M. M. Ford has also resigned and we have secured the promise of another teacher to take her place. We expect another vacancy after the holidays, but as yet can take no steps to secure another teacher. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

July 9, 1918

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District, Fairfax County, Virginia, held at the Centreville Schoolhouse. Present were W. W. Swart, R. L. Spindle, and John D. Garrett. The subject of teachers came up for discussion and it was unanimously agreed that all of the old teachers who desired to come back be given their places they had the last session. The Superintendent recommended Miss Miriam Buckley for First Assistant in the Clifton School, and after discussion of the question the Board unanimously deemed it unwise to accept the recommendation and the Clerk to notify Miss Buckley to that effect. The Board condemns the abuse of the Centreville School building and we respectfully submit that the citizens and patrons of said school ought to take some interest in the building and assist as far as possible, the School Board to bring the ones who continue to abuse the schoolhouse to some punishment. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

August 22, 1918

The Centreville District School Board met at the Centreville School building. Present were W. W. Swart, R. L. Spindle, John D. Garrett, and Superintendent M. D. Hall. The question of salaries of different teachers came up for discussion and Mr. Garrett moved that Miss Holmes, Principal of the Clifton School, be given $100.00 per month, which was opposed by Mr. Spindle and Superintendent Hall on the ground that the school had lost its position as an accredited high school on account of Miss Holmes. Therefore, she ought to be made to teach for a small salary. The following teachers were appointed to the different schools and their salaries:

On motion, the Board adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

December 27, 1918

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District held at the Clifton School building. Present were W. W. Swart, R. L. Spindle, Superintendent M D. Hall, and John D. Garrett, and quite a few patrons of the school. After viewing the furnace and finding certain defects, it was decided to let Mr. Barrett see if he could get someone who knows about furnaces to come and view its plant and see what wants being done and the probable cost of same to repair the same to the Board. It was unanimously decided not to start the school until the furnace was put in order. It was decided to give Clyde Mathers the sum of $2.00 per day as janitor for a month. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

June 25, 1919

A meeting of the School Board of Centreville District called by the Division Superintendent, M. D. Hall, at the Centreville Schoolhouse. Present were R. L. Spindle, W. W. Swart, M. D. Hall, and John D. Garrett. Mr. Hall said the meeting was called because there had been an appeal to the Electoral Board in regard to the reappointment of Miss Xenia R. Holmes as Principal of the Clifton High School. Whereupon it was found that no appointment had been made but that the Board was unanimously in favor of reappointing Miss Holmes. After a general discussion, it was decided that we leave it to the patrons of the Clifton School. The Clerk was directed to post notice and advertise it in the Fairfax Herald of the time and place of holding said meeting. On motion adjourned. Signed, W. W. Swart, Chairman, and John D. Garrett, Clerk

July 5, 1919

After duly advertising the day and hour of the meeting, we met the Patrons of the Clifton School and it was decided to let each household be represented by casting one vote. Thereupon the ballots were circulated and collected by Messrs. Swart and Spindle, and after the counting of the ballots it was found that Miss Holmes had received 12 votes for her to come back as Principal and that there were 10 votes against her. It was unanimously agreed by the District School Board that Miss Holmes was declared elected Principal of the Clifton High School for the 1919 and 1920 session at a salary of $110.00 per month. Adjourned very suddenly as sour patrons began to use language very unbecoming in the presence of ladies. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

February 18, 1920

A meeting of Centreville District School Board held at J. D. Garrett’s residence. Present were W. W. Swart, R. L. Spindle, and John D. Garrett. After listening to a statement made by W. W. Swart in regard to the Legato School, it was unanimously agreed to close the school on February 20, 1920. After talking school matters for some minutes, the meeting adjourned. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

February 23, 1920

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Legato Schoolhouse. Present were W. W. Swart, R. L. Spindle, Superintendent M. D. Hall, John D. Garrett, also the teacher Mrs. Eva A. Miller, her husband, and several patrons of the school.  It was agreed to reconsider our action and give Mrs. Miller a chance to be heard, and after she had made her statement and Mr. Swart his, it was left to Garrett and Spindle to make a report, and after retiring and talking the matter over we came to this conclusion: That in our opinion, the school had not been properly run, and if the teacher would promise to run the same according to the rules of conducting a one-room school, we would continue the school six months. We left the matter in the hands of Superintendent Hall to see that she makes the required average. After talking over school matters, we adjourned. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

April 30, 1920

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Clifton Schoolhouse. Present were R. L. Spindle and J. D. Garrett. The following bills were ordered paid:

After talking matters over in regard to schools, the meeting adjourned. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

March 28, 1921

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board was held at Centreville Schoolhouse. Present were R. L. Spindle, Chairman, and J. D. Garrett, Clerk. On motion the following warrants were ordered drawn as follows:

And when Smith’s time as janitor is up to draw him a warrant. Adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

June 25, 1921

A regular meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at the residence of R. L. Spindle. Present were Spindle and Garrett.  The following warrants were ordered drawn as follows:

Adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

July 15, 1921

A called meeting of the Centreville District School Board, held at Clifton, Virginia. Present were J. C. Swift and J. D. Garrett.  The following bills were presented and ordered paid:

Adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

September 16, 1921

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Clifton, Virginia. Present were R. L. Spindle, Chairman, J. E. Swift, Superintendent M. D. Hall, and J.D. Garrett. The following teachers were selected for the coming term:

The following warrants were ordered drawn as follows:

After contracting with teachers and discussing school activities, we adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk.

Notes:

• Two names in the above tables were indecipherable and have been noted with square brackets.
• The Pender School, located in the village of Pender, once stood on the eastbound side of Route 50 approximately one-half mile west of West Ox Road. In 1921, John Harry Shannon, who went by the pen name “The Rambler,” visited the Pender School and wrote an article for The Sunday Star newspaper in which he mentioned the school and its teacher, Miss Tracey Gaines. A transcription of this article is available on the Fairfax County Public Library website.

November 26, 1921

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Clifton, Virginia. Present were J. C. Swift, Superintendent M. D. Hall, and John D. Garrett. We decided to raise the value of our schoolhouses for the purpose of carrying more insurance, and comparing a list Superintendent Hall had with one Garrett had we found very little difference except in the value of the Chantilly Schoolhouse, which was adjusted to the satisfaction of the Board. It was agreed to let the Colored people of the Town of Clifton make a Deed for two acres of land for the purpose of building a two-room schoolhouse in the near future and Superintendent M. D. Hall was requested to make application for the gift of $900 – and we decided to see if we could get some bids on the old schoolhouse and lot. The following warrants were drawn:

On motion, we adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

December 28, 1921

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Clifton Station, Virginia. Present were J. C. Swift, John T. DeBell, and J. D. Garrett. On motion, J. C. Swift was elected Chairman, and J. D. Garrett re-elected Clerk of said Board. The following warrants were ordered drawn:

The patrons of the Cub Run School raised $150.00 of the sum of $313.57 to purchase new desks for the school. On motion, Mr. DeBell was appointed a committee to see about the roof of the Centreville Schoolhouse and report to this Board at its next regular meeting. Adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

January 17, 1922

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Clifton, Virginia. Present were J. C. Swift, Chairman, and J. D. Garrett. The following bills were examined and ordered paid and the Clerk was instructed to draw warrants for same:

On motion adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

February 25, 1922

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Centreville, Virginia. Present were J. C. Swift, J. T. DeBell, and J. D. Garrett. Mr. DeBell made a report as to the work to be done on the Centreville Schoolhouse and he was directed to have the work done. The Board ordered the following warrants drawn:

No further business, meeting adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

March 25, 1922

This meeting of the Centreville District School Board was held at Clifton, Virginia. Present were J. C. Swift, John T. DeBell, and J. D. Garrett. The following bills were ordered paid and warrants were drawn as follows:

There being no further business, the School Board adjourned. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

Note:

• J. E. Gheen operated a general store in the village of Pender. Pender was once located at the present-day intersection of West Ox Road and Route 50 near Fair Oaks Mall. In 1921, John Harry Shannon, who went by the pen name “The Rambler,” visited Pender and wrote an article for the The Sunday Star newspaper in which he described the village and Gheen's store. A transcription of this article is available on the Fairfax County Public Library website.

April 7, 1922

The Centreville District School Board met at Centreville, Virginia. Present were J. T. DeBell and John D. Garrett. The following bills were ordered paid and warrants were drawn as follows:

On motion, the School Board adjourned. Signed, John D. Garrett, Clerk

April 29, 1922

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Centreville Schoolhouse. Present were J. C. Swift, John T. DeBell, and J. D. Garrett. After a good deal of talk in regard to the fixing of the Centreville Schoolhouse and in regard to the other work needed in the District, the following warrants were ordered drawn:

There being no further business, meeting adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

May 27, 1922

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Centreville, Virginia. Present were John T. DeBell and J. D. Garrett. The following warrants were drawn:

Meeting adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

June 24, 1922

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board. Present were John T. DeBell and John D. Garrett. The following bills were examined and found correct and warrants were ordered drawn as follows:

There being no further business before the board, adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

August 26, 1922

A meeting of the Centreville District School Board held at Centreville, Virginia. Present were J. T. DeBell and J. D. Garrett. The following warrants were drawn as follows:

After due advertisement of the time and place, we sold the old roofing at public sale and proceeds turned in to the treasurer. On motion adjourned. Signed, J. D. Garrett, Clerk

Undated, Pages 168 and 169

Teachers appointed for Term 1917-1918 and their Post Office

Undated, Loose Paper

The following minutes were written on a piece of loose paper found between pages 168 and 169 of the minute book. The minutes are undated, but they may be Clerk’s initial notes for the meeting held on January 4, 1909:

At a called meeting of the Board we met at Clifton. Present were R. A. Buckley, Chairman, James Harris, John D. Garrett, and also Superintendent M. D. Hall. The situation in the District was gone over and Superintendent Hall was appointed a committee of one to visit the Red Hill School and use his discretion about closing the school. The bills of Mr. [-]ash and Mr. Harris were ordered paid.

Undated, Pages 170 and 171

Mr. T. O. McMullen - In account with the Centreville School Board.

Balance due McMullen on contract building Centreville School House – Total: $2,1110.82; plus $89.18; Grand Total: $2,200.00

Balance due McMullen: $110.96
Balance paid McMullen on contract building Centreville School House: $89.18

Undated, Page 172

Two separate lists of teachers appear on page 172. In the first list all the names except T. M. Biddlecomb and Katherine Stewart (or Stuart) have check marks beside them.