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
In 1883, a twenty-seven-year-old pioneering educator of color named Israel Charles Norcom arrived in Portsmouth, Virginia. Born on September 21, 1856, in Edenton, North Carolina—just five years before the Civil War—Norcom was the son of John and Lucy Norcom. Standing over six feet tall, with a commanding presence and striking dignity, he devoted his life to advancing education for Black children in Portsmouth and strengthening the city’s public school system.
At a time when opportunities for Negro children were scarce, the city of Portsmouth established the Chestnut Street School, the first school dedicated to their education. That same year, Israel C. Norcom was appointed its principal. As an educator, he was remembered not only as a skilled teacher and leader but also as a counselor and tireless worker who gained respect and admiration from both Black and white communities. Under his leadership, the first graduating class— consisting of nine students—held its commencement ceremony at Zion Baptist Church, marking a milestone in Portsmouth’s educational history.
In recognition of his loyalty and dedication, the city of Portsmouth would later immortalize his name through the establishment of I. C. Norcom High School, ensuring that his vision for education lived on for generations.
ISREAL CHARLES
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
