Baker High School was built on the corner of Victory Drive and Benning Drive, in Columbus, GA in the shadow of Fort Benning, near the end of World War II.  Baker High was unique, in that, approximately 90% of the students were military dependents. 

Although the first graduating class was in 1945,  20 years  passed before blacks in the Columbus community could call Baker High their Alma Mater. The first black graduates were Robert Leonard and Larry Smith in 1965.  

The Black Lions of Baker High from 1965 to 1970 were trail-blazers.  Barriers were broken in academics, the arts, as well as, athletics.  We were few and therefore, often were the only black student in our class.  As students at Baker, we were strong, united; our bond transcended class distinctions.

The pace was set for the Black Lions that followed.  However, the demographics changed.  That rare breed of Black Lion multiplied and eventually secured a predominate position in the halls. 

Roarrrrrrrr!!!  The Black Lion Reigneth!

The Black Lions held ground until the last graduating class, June 6, 1991.  Although, the school remained empty for years, on May 19, 2010, the building was, questionably, destroyed by fire. Todate, the investigation is still open. 

Having shared memorable experiences in our youth, we felt the need to come together as adults.  In 1985, the first Reunion of Black Graduates was held in Columbus, GA.  We had a very informal mixer hosted by Mary Marshall-Brooks, Class of 1969, and a Dinner/Dance at the Ralston Hotel coordinated by Jeanette Simpson Nu’Man and Dianne Reid, also graduates in the Class of1969.   The success of that reunion was the driving force for our coming together again.

On June 29, 2007, the Black Lions of Baker High came together again for “The For Real Big Chill”.  This event was coordinate by Theresa (Tesa) Liggett-Smotherman, Class of 1968. 

It was determined at this Reunion that a website should be created.  Dianne Reid, class of 1969, stepped up to the plate.

Our Goal:

This site has a page dedicated to the names of Black Lions from the graduating classes of 1965 through 1970.  Our next milestone will be to include the names of “ALL” the Black Lions, and then next, their email addresses.

Help us make this site complete.