Mecklenburg schools to donate Fine Institute marker as Chase City Elementary demolition begins

The Mecklenburg County Public Schools board was told the Chase City Elementary building was handed to contractor Blair Construction on Aug. 1 and currently is undergoing asbestos remediation before demolition.

Superintendent Dr. Warner said the division has set aside about 100 bricks requested by alumni before demolition begins and has decided to donate a historical marker tied to the Fine Institute to the Fine Institute museum “so it will not be damaged during construction.”

The Fine Institute marker was originally dedicated on July 3, 1976 by the Fine Knight Club, the superintendent said. James Fane, a member of the Fine Institute board who read a written statement to the board, thanked the school division and trustees for preserving the marker. “On behalf of the community, alumni, and supporters of the historic Fine Institute, we extend our deepest appreciation and heartfelt gratitude for your thoughtful presentation of [the] historical marker honoring the legacy of Fine Institute,” Fane read.

Warner described the Fine Institute’s role in local education from 1876 to 1953 and said the institute’s site and the marker reflect the history of education for African American children in the county. He told the board the marker would be transferred to the Fine Institute museum and could be returned to its former location later if the Fine Institute or club requests it.

Board members and attendees expressed appreciation for the preservation steps and for the construction team’s plans to protect historic items. The superintendent emphasized that visible demolition work will not begin until remediation and testing are complete.

The item was presented as part of the superintendent’s report; no formal vote was recorded on the marker donation during the meeting.