Douglass High School

Douglass High School is a brick school building in Leesburg constructed in 1941 that features multiple classrooms arranged around a central commons area. A gymnasium added in 1960 and various spaces for educational activities complete the facility.

The building opened in 1941 as the first high school for African-American students in Loudoun County. After school desegregation in 1968, the institution's role and operations changed significantly.

The school is named after Frederick Douglass, the influential abolitionist and writer, reflecting the values that community organizers wanted to represent. This choice of name represents the hopes for education and equality that this institution held for the community.

The school is located in Leesburg and is easily accessible by car; the central commons area is open for visitors to explore. It is best to visit during school breaks or on weekends when regular classes are not in session.

Local African American residents purchased the 8-acre land together and transferred it to the county for just one dollar to make construction possible. This act shows the strong determination of the community to provide access to education for their children.