Memphis Booker T. Washington Alumni Association
Welcome home, Warriors.
For more than 150 years, Booker T. Washington High School has shaped Memphis. Reconnect with classmates, celebrate our heritage, and help the next generation of Warriors succeed.
Founded as Clay Street School, a two-room, two-teacher schoolhouse
public high school for Black students in Memphis
Moved to Lauderdale Street and named for Booker T. Washington
From a two-room schoolhouse to a Memphis landmark
Booker T. Washington High School began as Clay Street School — a two-room, two-teacher structure — and grew into the first public high school for Black students in Memphis.
Renamed Kortrecht High School, it moved to Webster Avenue around 1911. During the 1926–27 school year it settled on Lauderdale Street and took the name of educator and leader Booker T. Washington. Every graduate carries that legacy forward, and the Alumni Association exists to keep it strong.
Explore our history100th Anniversary
A century ago, during the 1926–27 school year, our school took the name Booker T. Washington High School. Join the celebration live, from anywhere in the world.
Live stream coming soon
The 100th anniversary celebration will stream right here. Check back on event day.
Warriors making a difference
Stories from graduates who carry the green and gold into their communities.
BTW taught me that excellence was expected, not optional. I carried that into thirty years in the classroom.
A BTW graduate mentored me when I was seventeen. Now I mentor current students through the Association.
Homecoming weekend is my favorite tradition. Walking those halls, it feels like no time has passed.
Photo gallery
Moments from BTW, past and present, and a home for photos from every reunion and event.
Keep the legacy strong
There’s a place for every Warrior in the Alumni Association.
Become a member
Stay connected, support the Association’s work, and get first word on reunions and events.
Join todayGive to the scholarship fund
Every gift helps a BTW senior take the next step toward college or a career.
Make a giftMentor a student
Share your experience with current students through career days, tutoring, and one-on-one mentoring.
Volunteer