Union School
City of Big Rapids
Beginning and evolution of Big Rapids High School

The Union School was built in 1868-69 by John McNaughton on the corner of Pine and North Michigan Avenue. The school included two stories and was built at a cost of $2,800.00. The cost of stumping and grading cost $29.00. In 1870 a 400 pound bell was added.

August 9, 1880 the first steps were taken toward building the Central School. It was occupied in 1881 and was built by Crocker and Hudnutt for $1,500.00. It was a two story on the west side of N. State Street.

In 1911-12 an addition was built at the back. The old part was demolished in 1925. A new part was built to the south with a large gym and to the north an auditorium. Up until this point, graduation was held in the Opera building and the 1st Methodist Church.