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History

Patrick Henry Academy was founded in 1965 in response to the desire of interested parents and patrons for a school in which students could be well prepared for college through an excellent educational program. It began operation in that year under a charter issued by the State of South Carolina. During that first year, the school operated with Mr. Marion R. Lawton of Estill serving as President of the Board of Directors and Mrs. Nellie C. Merriman of Ridgeland as Headmistress.   Furman, South Carolina was where the first school building, in which PHA held its classes, was located.   Initially, grades one through nine were offered.

Between the period of 1966-1968, grades nine through eleven were added. The Academy's first graduation was held on May 30, 1965. The first school bus was purchased in 1966 to transport the children to and from school. 

Groundbreaking was held in 1969 for the current building.  The new school structure was completed for the 1970-1971 school year providing classroom space for 336 students, a library, and a completely equipped science laboratory. A large spacious gymnasium complete with lunchroom and kitchen was completed for use in the 1974-1975 school term.