Mead Hall Episcopal School began in 1955 as the vision of rector George H. Murphy. He persuaded the George H. Mead family of Dayton, Ohio to donate their Aiken estate, The Pillars, in memorial to their son, Lt. George H. Mead, Jr. who was killed in action on Guadalcanal during World War II. In addition to this property, Aldrich Hall was acquired for the school to serve as home to the headmaster and his family.
The school moved to its current location on the grounds of St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church in 1961. This was due to the foresight of the Rev. Howard M. Hickey. Not only did this move mark the true beginning of Mead Hall as the parish day school of St. Thaddeus, but it also brought the school physically and spiritually closer together. The original classroom building is still in use, and additional buildings have been added through the years.
Strong leadership has always been a part of Mead Hall, beginning with the first headmaster, Franklin Butler. Joseph H. Harris was appointed headmaster in 1957, a position he held for 27 years. His wife Rosa served in varying capacities for nearly that long. Through the continued support of St. Thaddeus parishioners, Mead Hall families, and community members, the day school looks forward to its future of building the academic and spiritual foundations of its students.
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