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Local grad to share San Juan High’s origins in Citrus Heights Historical Society presentation

Students prepare to enter the newly constructed San Juan High School for the first time in 1915.
Students prepare to enter the newly constructed San Juan High School for the first time in 1915. // Citrus Heights Historical Society

By Sara Beth Williams–
The Citrus Heights Historical Society is inviting the community to a presentation on the origins of San Juan High School, one of the oldest institutions in the area. The event will take place on Thursday, Aug. 7 at 6 p.m. at Citrus Heights City Hall.

San Juan High School was founded in 1913 by a group of local citizens who were concerned about their children’s education according to event information. Eighth Grade was the highest grade available in the area at the time. With the County’s encouragement, local ranchers and farmers started the San Juan Union High School District.

The evening will feature a lecture by Dick Cowan, a 1964 graduate of San Juan High School according to Citrus Heights Historical Society President Larry Fritz. Cowan is expected to share stories, photos, and historical context tracing the high school’s development in its founding days, including discussion on why the school was needed, who first formed the school and district, and what the students studied.

The event is part of the Historical Society’s ongoing effort to preserve and share the rich history of Citrus Heights, through a series of free, public presentations. Earlier this year, the Historical Society presented on the history of Sylvan Corners, and on the 1973 Roseville Railyard Bombings.

Citrus Heights City Hall is located at 6360. The event is free and light refreshments will be available.

For more information about the event, residents can visit the Citrus Heights Historical Society’s website at citrusheightshistory.org