HOPKINSVILLE, Ky. (WBKO) -A Hopkinsville nonprofit is working to restore a historic school that once served as the only place where many African American students in Christian County and surrounding communities could receive a high school education — but a roof collapse is threatening to make restoration impossible.
Crispus Attucks School opened in 1916, became an integrated middle school in 1967 and closed its doors in 1988. Its halls have sat empty for nearly four decades.
History of the school
LaDessa Lewis, co-founder and executive director of Men 2 Be, said the building’s significance to the community runs deep.
“Back when there was segregation, this was the only school where African Americans could get an education. Kids were bused in to attend this school. It has a great foundation. It has great purpose in this community,” Lewis said.
Roof collapse threatens restoration
Men 2 Be, a nonprofit that mentors boys between the ages of 7 and 18, took responsibility for the property in 2024 and developed plans to restore the building. A storm in May 2026 caused part of the already-damaged roof to collapse, substantially slowing the organization’s progress…