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The Ville, Northside, Riverview

Turner Middle School

2615 Billups Avenue

Open to public /  Not Open to public

Not open to public 

Turner Middle School, situated at 2615 Billups Avenue in St. Louis's historic Ville neighborhood, has a rich legacy rooted in African American education. Originally established as Stowe Teachers College in 1940, the institution has transformed over the decades to meet the evolving educational needs of its community.

The building that now houses Turner Middle School was originally constructed in 1940 as Stowe Teachers College, named after abolitionist and author Harriet Beecher Stowe. Designed by architect George Senger, the college served as a training ground for African American teachers during a time when segregation limited educational opportunities .

In 1999, the institution was reestablished as the Charles Henry Turner MEGA Magnet Middle School, with "MEGA" standing for Multimedia Electronic Graphic Arts. This transformation aimed to provide students with specialized curricula focusing on technology and the arts, preparing them for the demands of the modern workforce .

Today, Turner Middle School continues to serve the local community, offering a comprehensive educational experience that emphasizes academic excellence and personal growth. The school's enduring presence reflects its commitment to adapting and evolving to meet the needs of its students while honoring its historical roots.

These institutions not only highlight the rich educational history of St. Louis but also underscore the city's ongoing commitment to providing inclusive and adaptive learning environments for all students.

SOURCE: The historical information presented on this page is adapted with permission from Discovering African American St. Louis: A Guide to Historic Sites by Dr. John A. Wright, Sr. We are honored to share his invaluable research and historical insights, made available through the generous consent of Dr. Wright and the Missouri Historical Society Press. Their dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of Black St. Louis is a gift to our community—a testament to those who came before us and a guide for those who walk the path forward.

John Wright Discovering AA St. Louis.jpg

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2615 Billups Avenue

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© 2023 by STLP Crew. Saint Louis, Missouri

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