The History of Union Academy High School in Anna
The city of Anna (population 5,136) is located in far southern Illinois in the center of Union County. The
mighty Mississippi River is located 10 miles to the west of Anna and the busy college town of Carbondale sits 20 miles to
the north. Roads leading to Anna include U.S. Route 51 which intersects with Il. Routes 146 and 127. The Illinois
Central Gulf Railroad runs some tracks through town as well. Creeks and rivers in the area include the Cache River,
the Little Creek, and Lick Creek.
Union Academy High School was the dream of Walter Willard and William Faris of Anna. The men
saw the future of Anna needing a school of higher learning for the children of the area. The idea took 12 years
to develop, however Union Academy High School opened its doors in 1883. Union Academy grew to
be an ever popular school. People in the area were constantly looking for ways to expand the facilities and quality
of education. By 1907 the school was known throughout the area, having its campus built on the outskirts of Anna.
By 1917 the towns of Anna and Jonesboro had established their own public high schools. The three
school districts decided to pool their efforts into one school district. This effort took place with the consolidation
of Anna, Jonesboro, and Union Academy high schools. The high school for the new district was located on the Union Academy High School campus.
Anna-Jonesboro School District is still thriving today. The fate of the original Union Academy school
buildings is being sought.
Union Academy High School Quick Facts
Year opened:
1883
Year closed:
1917
Consolidated to: Anna-Jonesboro
School District
Union Academy team nickname: unavailable
Union Academy team colors: unavailable
School Fight Song:
unavailable
