The History of Akin High School
Akin (population approx. 100) is located in far south-central Illinois in the east-central
portion of Franklin County. Akin is about 8 miles east of Benton. Akin is situated in a country setting on
County Road 3 just east of County Road 17. The Illinois Central Railroad travels to the west of Akin.
The town appears to be about 3 blocks from north to south and 3 blocks from east to west. Akin is an unicorporated town
at this time.
We were unable to access any information on the internet regarding the history of the town of
Akin and its former school. The only evidence we currently have that a high school once existed in Akin is from
the Geneology Trails web address of http://genealogytrails.com/ill/franklin/schools.htm . This page simply lists a school called "Akin High School" with nothing further
in support.
Our guess, judging by the size of the town and the history of other schools on this site, is that Akin likely
offered a 2 or 3-year high school from the early 1920s through the late 1940s. If you have any further information regarding
Akin or the former Akin High School please contact us at eganann@sbcglobal.net.
Dennis Smail tells the following about the current elementary school still functioning in Akin:
"From the map there seems to be some kind of school on the West end of town still standing, maybe
a newer one, maybe the old one! It is called Akin Blacktop Elementary, and is very small if it is still operating....10
to 15 students per grade. There is some evidence that the school colors were / are red and black and the nickname is
Bulldogs!"
Adam Rosoho also advises:
"As for the grade school at Akin, it is still operating. They are the Akin Bulldogs and their colors are red and
white. The enrollment for Akin Grade School K-8 is 115 students. The school only offers Boys Basketball and
Girls Volleyball."
Akin High School Quick Facts
Year opened:
1920s?
Year closed:
1940s?
Consolidated to: Benton
High School
Akin HS team nickname: possibly the "Bulldogs"
Team uniform colors: possibly Red & Black
School Fight Song: unavailable
