Deadwood High School History (1886 - 1971)

Welcome to the Deadwood High School history page dedicated to preserving the memories of the Deadwood High School alumni.  The establishment of higher education is an important benchmark in the in the development of a community, and Deadwood was no exception.  In 1881, Deadwood became the second established School District within Lawrence County, Dakota Territory.  In the ensuing years after the school incorporation, two  grade schools and a high school were constructed and operated in three of the four city wards (First Ward: grade school - Burnham Hill; Second Ward: High School – upper Main Street; Four Ward: grade school - Jackson Street).  Throughout its 90 years of existence the Deadwood School District, its educators, and the community persevered over fires, floods, and financial difficulties – a testament to the importance of educating its children.

The first high school graduating class occurred in 1886 and consisted of six students:  Annette Forest, Belle Chase, Estelline Bennet, Irene Cushman, Mamie Philips, and Minnie Craig.  In the 1920s, the school body adopted the bear as the official school mascot.  The Deadwood High School Bears became a powerhouse in western South Dakota winning numerous academic and athletic competitions attributed to students and school faculty’s dedication to higher education and school pride.  As Deadwood’s community grew, so did the School District.  The high school campus  underwent several building expansions in 1899, 1925 and 2018. 

In the 1960s, the Deadwood and Lead School Boards began discussions on merging the two school districts based on a decrease in funding and student enrollment.  The 1971 DHS Seniors became the last graduating class in Deadwood.  

WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!

Do you have photographs, school newsletters, academic or athletic awards, academic and athletic letters, diplomas, yearbooks and sporting equipment from Deadwood High School?  If so, please consider donating to the City of Deadwood Archives.  Click HERE to access the CODA acquisition policy.

Collection building is fundamental to the development of the City of Deadwood Archives long-term success. For more information, please contact the City of Deadwood Archives at:

(605) 578-2082 or email at: archives@cityofdeadwood.com

D.H.S. Scanned Yearbooks