HAGERSTOWN – South Hagerstown High School will mark a major milestone in 2026 as it celebrates the 70th anniversary of students first occupying the South End building.
The South Hagerstown High Anniversary Association, a nonprofit organization formed by alumni and community members, is leading the platinum anniversary celebration.
The festivities will begin from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 16, with a car show fundraiser and open house at the school.
The car show, organized by Jimmy Black, a 1964 South High graduate, is open to “anything with wheels,” including cars, trucks and Jeeps. Black is also involved in planning the Alsatia Club’s Thunder in the Square shows and more than 30 regional car events each year.
Ten winners will be selected — five from a special alumni class and five from the general show field. Registration is a recommended $10 donation on the day of the event. Participants will receive dash plaques while supplies last.
“Having Mr. Black as part of this car show has been fantastic,” said event Chairman Brayden Leather. “Mr. Black is a South High graduate who brings plenty of knowledge and experience to help make this car show great.”
Food during the event will include barbecue pulled pork sandwiches made using the recipe of late South High quarterback Phil Petry. Alumni are encouraged to contribute baked goods for a donation-based bake sale. Smash Grab & Go food truck will also attend, donating a portion of proceeds to the anniversary association.
Inside the school, guests may tour the building and explore historical displays. Tours will begin at the top of each hour. Artifacts from the South Hagerstown High School Historical Archive collection — including items dating back to Hagerstown High School and World War II — will be on display alongside Quidnunc yearbooks and decade-by-decade tributes.
A highlight of the day will be the re-formation of the alumni band, scheduled to perform the school’s fight song, “Are You From South High?” at 1:30 p.m. on the front porch. Alumni majorettes, Rebelettes, color guard and cheerleaders are invited to participate. Current band director Andrew Gallagher will assist by supplying instruments and equipment.
Commemorative 70th anniversary apparel featuring a logo designed by art teacher Audrey Hammond is available through an online store until March 20. Proceeds will support a “mega reunion” social event planned for Saturday, Nov. 7, in the school gymnasium.
Leather said the anniversary events reflect the deep connection alumni continue to have with the school.
“This school has a rich history and has made a lasting impact on so many people over the years,” Leather said. “What began as a distant idea inspired by the 50th anniversary in 2006 has quickly grown into a reality thanks to the efforts of proud Rebels.”
The South Hagerstown High Anniversary Association is open to alumni, current and former staff and community members. Upcoming meetings will be held at 6 p.m. March 9 and April 7 in the school’s media center.
