HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – With support from the Kentucky African American Heritage Commission, the local nonprofit Men 2 Be erected three interpretive signs at Attucks High School to display snapshots of the building’s history to further support their restoration project.
“These signs serve as a testament to the history that has been entrusted to us and will continue to be shared as we work toward the future of this historic site,” said a statement from Men 2 Be. They celebrated the establishment of the plaques during a community event on June 19.
Built in 1916, Attucks High School at 712 East First Street in Hopkinsville served as the first Black public school. In 1988 the school closed, leaving the building to deteriorate. Men 2 Be is infusing their mission of supporting and guiding Black youth by restoring the abandoned campus for a community center.
Attucks history, local youth displayed during renovation
One sign that has been placed is dedicated to Coach William Falls, who was the head coach at Attucks starting in 1935. According to the information posted by the KAAHC, he earned over 500 wins at the school before they consolidated into Hopkinsville High School. He was also an accomplished teacher who taught woodworking and shop classes.
Fannie Mae Bronson Postell also has her own sign, which details her history as a Hopkinsville educational pioneer. In 1927 she helped create and became the principal at Attucks, serving in this role until 1936.
“Real change happens when a community comes together,” said a statement from Men 2 Be. “Through unity, support, and shared vision, we can create opportunities that no one person could accomplish alone. Together, we build hope. Together, we build growth. Together, we help our youth reach their full potential.”
Men 2 Be also is also represented among these signs, with their mission and history summarized outside of the very school they are hoping to restore.
That is not the only way the nonprofit has left their mark on the building, as large posters have been installed on the school’s exterior featuring photos of the young members representing past, present and future African American male figures who have impacted the community.
Ongoing fundraising for Attucks, how to support Men 2 Be
In 2024, the Attucks Alumni Association gifted the building to Men 2 Be for the cost of just one dollar. When the potential blueprints were revealed in April of 2025, it was estimated that they would need to raise upward of $1 million for the transformation via grant money and community donations.
Initial renderings showed an updated facility that not only has space for community meetings, gatherings, and classes, but also houses 20 apartments. The school could potentially function as an emergency shelter and food pantry as well.
Founded by LaDessa Lewis in 2020, Men 2 Be strives to empower young men in the community to reach their full academic, social, and personal potential. This is accomplished through a variety of programming along with support from community mentors and volunteers to create a solid foundation that helps local boys grow into well rounded men.
With sight set on a full restoration of the 100-year-old building, the nonprofit is currently focused on repairing the roof. Their “Hopkinsville Emerald City Gala,” is coming up on Aug. 1, with additional fundraising happening year-round.
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