New book chronicles 100 years of Atascadero High School history

‘AHS The First 100 Years’ celebrates century of memories, architecture, and community milestones

ATASCADERO — A new book has been released that tells the story of the first 100 years of Atascadero High School (AHS). “AHS The First 100 Years” is the work of a committee by the same name in Atascadero. The book was the work of graduates, board members, civic leaders, retired teachers, and more.

The almost 100-page work contains the history of the original high school building, which had its first graduates in 1921.

The main building of the campus, from its earliest days, has been the two-story “B Building.” One wing of that campus was knocked down in the early 1970s. It included an auditorium, with a stage and theater seating, and a gymnasium. The original architect for the high school campus was Colony architect John Roth.

The main building was razed in the summer of 2022. It seemed fitting that a “memory” book chronicling the high school’sfirst 100 years needed to be written.

To that end, the committee interviewed many alumni. Some filled out interview sheets at a Colony Days celebration. Others dictated their memories into tape recorders, while others wrote individual pieces at the committee’s invitation.

High school students conducted numerous interviews for the book. Former newspaper editor and local historian L.W. Allan wrote historic pieces that covered happenings on both the campus and in the small community that started at the base of the hill. Many will recall Virgil’s Drive-in, going to the movies at La Moda Theater, or water skiing on Atascadero Lake. The project began in 2019, just to be slowed by the COVID pandemic.

“But we have a book that is filled with stories and photographs that we think everyone will enjoy,” Allan said.

The First 100 Committee was chaired by Jim Greenman, former AHS teacher and coach. Also, long-time teacher and coach, member of the school board and civic leader Donn Clickard was involved, along with the late Wayne Cooper, Stacey Phillips, Allan, and District Superintendent Tom Butler. The book was formatted by Janet Graupman.

To get a book, contact Donn Clickard at (805) 712-6356. The books are $20 each. Checks should be made payable to LIGHTHOUSE.

Feature Image: “AHS The First 100 Years” is the work of a committee by the same name in Atascadero and is now available for purchase. Photo by Lon Allan