NEWPORT-"Our purpose is to preserve the legacy of all the people touched by Tanner," said Carlene Robinson regarding the newly-established Tanner Alumni Association.

Robinson was speaking at a recent meeting held at Newport Utilities' community room. "There was never a yearbook, but people have pictures tucked away," she continued, "but people have pictures tucked away. We must motivate more people to research and refine our information."

Robinson emphasized the importance of collecting and preserving the history. "With every passing day," she said, "more of this history is lost. We know who has connections with Tanner."

Robinson and others are alumni of Tanner School, Cocke County's last African-American school which housed all twelve grades until its closure in the 1960s.

Until 2011, the former school served as home to numerous other groups and agencies, until severe tornado damage forced its closure.

For more details, please see the weekend edition of the Newport Plain Talk.