Dorchester High School

The History of Dorchester High School

Dorchester (population 142) is located in the southwestern portion of Illinois in the south-central portion of Macoupin County. The town is situated on County Highway 15 about one mile north of Illinois Route 138. Dorchester is located about halfway between the towns of Gillespie and Bunker Hill.

A nice website with some interesting information on the history of the town of Dorchester is found at the web address of http://www.genealogytrails.com/ill/macoupin/dorchester.html . In summary, the article states the following:

A railroad was built in the area in 1855. A station was established where the town of Dorchester now sits in 1861. Businesses began springing up near the depot and by 1866 the population began to grow. In addition to the businesses two churches were established in the 1860s as well. Coal mining was an important part of the early growth of Dorchester.

The first school in Dorchester was established in 1869. It appears that but for a few years Dorchester children were limited to a the maximum of an 8th grade education. However, for at least a few years, the school system offered courses that went beyond the eighth grade. During the years of 1910 through 1912 it is probable that one to two years of high school courses were offered.

Dorchester continued to have a school in their town until 1959. The children of Dorchester today attend all of their schooling in nearby Gillespie. For another internet look at Dorchester check out http://www.gillespieil.com/gillespie/dorchester.html .

Dorchester High School Quick Facts

Year opened: 1910?

Year closed: 1912?

Consolidated to: Gillespie High School

Unknown if athletics offered