The Greyhound Historical Preservation Society (GHPCS) exists to safeguard, celebrate, and share the extraordinary legacy of I. C. Norcom High School one of the nation’s oldest historicallyblack high schools. Its vision is to ensure that the school’s impact onAmerican education, culture, and civil rights is never forgotten, and that the future generations understand the resilience and brilliance of the greyhound legacy.
The GHPS serves as the historical andcultural extension of the I. C. Norcom Alumni Association, responsible for research, preservation, education, and storytelling around the school’s
HISTORY
Israel Charles “I.C.” Norcom was a pioneering African American educator whose leadership helped shape the foundation of public education for Black students in Portsmouth, Virginia. Born on September 21, 1856, in Edenton, North Carolina, to John and Lucy Norcom, he came of age during a time of profound racial and social change. Despite the barriers of his era, Norcom pursued an exceptional education, attending Yale Preparatory School in Connecticut, graduating from Andover Preparatory School in Massachusetts, and completing studies at Yale University, Harvard University, Howard University, Hampton Institute (now Hampton University), and the University of Virginia.
Before settling in Portsmouth in the 1880s, Norcom taught for several years in Bedford County, Virginia. In 1883, at just twenty-seven years old, he arrived in Portsmouth and became the first principal of the newly established Chestnut Street School—the city’s first public school for Black children. Standing over six feet tall with a commanding presence and deep sense of purpose, Norcom quickly became known for his intelligence, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to his students.
Under his leadership, the Chestnut Street School produced its first graduating class of nine students, who held their commencement ceremony at Zion Baptist Church—a historic milestone for Black education in the city. Norcom’s influence reached beyond the classroom: he was also recognized as a civic leader, churchman, businessman, fraternalist, and mentor. His work greatly expanded educational opportunities for African American youth and inspired a legacy of excellence that transformed Portsmouth’s Black community.
When he passed away in 1916, Norcom left behind more than a career—he left a movement. In recognition of his lifelong service, the city of Portsmouth named its premier high school in his honor: I.C. Norcom High School. The institution continues to carry his name and spirit forward, standing as a living testament to his vision of education, empowerment, and enduring leadership.
ISREAL CHARLES
Pioneer Educator and Visionary Leader
IN THE MAKING
Placing a statue of Israel Charles Norcom on the campus of I. C. Norcom High School is more than an act of honor; it is a powerful statement of legacy. As the first black supervising principal in the city of Portsmouth and the principal of the historic Chestnut Street School, Mr. Norcom’s leadership laid the foundation for generations of excellence.
Established in 1878, I. C. Norcom High School stands as one of the nation’s oldest historically black high schools, a place where we have endured trials, broken barriers, and achieved greatness. A statue in his likeness will not only cement his legacy but also serve as a beacon and reminder to past, present, and future greyhounds of the strength, resilience, and accomplishments that define our shared history.
A LEGACY WORTH
From its earliest days, I. C. Norcom High School has stood as a pillar of perseverance and possibility—weathering segregation, celebrating integration, and producing leaders who have left indelible marks on our community and beyond. Each chapter of its history reflects the courage, resilience, and brilliance of those who walked its halls.
Now, as we honor Israel Charles Norcom with a statue that embodies these values, we invite you to join us in carrying this legacy forward preserving a powerful story of triumph and ensuring that future generations will continue to be inspired by the lessons of the past.
The Historical Preservation and Restoration initiative of I. C. Norcom High School is dedicated to safeguarding the school’s priceless artifacts, preserving its music and cultural traditions, and ensuring that its proper history is documented and celebrated for generations to come. From restoring band instruments and uniforms to archiving photographs, trophies, and historical documents, our goal is to honor the rich legacy that has shaped both the school and the city of Portsmouth.
To achieve this, we will raise funds through community-driven efforts such as commemorative paver campaigns, alumni donations, sponsorships, Corporate Donors, Private Donors, Grants and Special Events. Every contribution will directly support the restoration of artifacts, the chronicling of our heritage, and the elevation of Norcom’s enduring story as one of resilience, pride, and cultural excellence.
HISTORICAL
