Washington School. The Center is named after the McKinney family, members of which made great contributions to the town, and is dedicated to continuing the McKinney’s legacy of service to the area. Ernest L. McKinney served as principle of Booker T. Washington School and served as the first African American alderman of Jonesborough. He was voted into office on April 4, 1968. He also served on and
became the chair of the Washington County School Board. His wife Marion served for two decades as a social worker in the county and was a high school guidance counselor. Their son, Kevin McKinney, served as the first African American Mayor of Jonesborough, Tennessee. Booker T. Washington School was originally completed in 1939 as part of the WPA program and opened its doors in 1940 for the purpose of instructing African American children in grades 1 – 8. The school operated until integration in 1965 and then sat dormant until 2010 when the town of Jonesborough decided to restore the building. Officially opening on November 8, 2013 the McKinney Center is now operated by the town of Jonesborough and offers programming through the Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts created through a generous donation by James C. Martin on behalf of his wife. The arts program is designed to inspire area residents through appreciation for and participation in the various forms of art and expression. The comprehensive arts program offers a variety of educational opportunities for learning, such as, drawing, painting, mosaics, theatre, dance, and music. The program also includes other venues such as the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre and the International Storytelling Center. With an excellent Fine Arts Faculty students receive world-class instruction. The Center is also available as a venue rental. The newly renovated auditorium is perfect for weddings, parties, and special events. The classrooms, equipped with Wi-Fi, are excellent for meetings and small gatherings.
