The History of Hoyleton High School
Hoyleton (population 520) is located in far south-central Illinois in the northwest corner of Wasington
County. Illinois Route 177 is the main roadway leading you to and from Hoyleton. County Highway 24 also travels
through town. Hoyleton is about 10 miles southwest of Centralia.
We are still researching the history of this progressive, small community and its former high school. Hoyleton
does have a rich tradition. One of the better operations in the area for children and people with special
needs is the Hoyleton Youth and Family Services faclity, which has been operating in the town for over 100 years. Check
out www.hoyleton.org/locate.htm for information on this great organization.
Hoyleton is home to two K - 8 grade elementary schools. They are the Hoyleton Consolidated Elementary
School and Trinity Lutheran Elementary School. It is our belief that Hoyleton High School was begun in the
early 1920s. We know from research that Hoyleton High School boys basketball participated in an IHSA District Tournament in
1928. Our best guess is that Hoyleton High School likely served the town through the late 1940s, possibly into the 1950s.
Doug Bradley of Columbus, Indiana advised us that Hoyleton High School was a two year high
school, at least according yearbooks he researched from the late 1940s. We do know that Hoyleton's high school-aged
children attend Nashville High School today.
Roberta VanBriesen tells us "The high school, a 2 year school, was located in the basement
of the grade school. The article said it closed in 1952."
The fate of the Hoyleton High School building is a good one. Shaun Renth tells us
"Hoyleton's former high school building, I believe, is the Hoyleton Youth and Family Services Facility today."
Hoyleton High School Quick Facts
Year opened:
late 1800s / early 1900s
Year closed: 1952
Consolidated to: Nashville
High School
Hoyleton HS team nickname: "Thunderbolts"
Hoyleton HS team colors: Blue & White
Hoyleton HS Fight Song: unavailable
