Breese (population 4,048) is located in far southwestern Illinois about 30 miles east of East St. Louis.
Breese is located in the west-central portion of Clinton County. Old U.S. Route 50 passes through the center of town
while the New U.S. Route 50 passes through the north side of Breese. CSX Transportaion Railroad navigates its way
through the south side of Breese.
The town is named after Sidney Breese, a senator under president Abraham Lincoln.
The town of Breese was founded in 1855. To view a more in-depth history of the town and area please check out http://www.breese.org/History.htm.
The history of Breese Community High School is in need of research. It is likely that Breese had a
public school system that included high school curriculum by the late 1800s. The school likely annexed in several neighboring
small country school districts throughout the years.
It was in the late 1960s however that serious talks began to take place between Breese Community High School
and the Aviston High School District. These talks became a reality when the districts agreed to merge. The result was the creation
of the Breese Central School District. The new District took on a new mascot and team colors for its sports teams, and also
likely established a new school district.
Breese Central High School is located in Breese. The fate of the Breese Community High School building
is being sought.
Breese Community High School Quick Facts
Year opened:
late 1800s?
Year annexed Aviston HS:
1970
New district name:
Breese Central School District
Breese Community HS team nickname: the "Cardinals"
Breese Community HS team colors: Red & White
Breese Community HS fight song: unavailable
