George W. Watkins Elementary School

George W. Watkins Elementary School is a primary school in Quinton serving students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The facility includes modern classrooms, a library, and specialized spaces for music and exceptional education programs.

The school opened in 1950 and initially served only black students under strict racial segregation laws. A major Supreme Court decision in the 1960s ended this practice and forced the school to integrate.

The school bears the name of Dr. George W. Watkins, a church leader who championed education in the community for several decades. His commitment shaped how local people understood schooling as central to progress.

The school sits along New Kent Highway east of Williamsburg and is accessible by car. Visitors should be respectful of school operations during class hours and arrange private visits in advance.

The school earned National Historic Landmark status in 2001 for its role in advancing school desegregation. The building marks a turning point in American education and civil rights history.

Location: New Kent County

Inception: 1950

Part of: New Kent School and George W. Watkins School

Address: 6501 New Kent Highway

GPS coordinates: 37.52930,-77.09830

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:02