Colton High “Fact of the Day” – Aug. 21
The Whitmer Auditorium is a landmark at Colton High, but what do we know about its namesake, Charles F. Whitmer?
Colton High School opened in 1895. It is one of the oldest high schools in the Inland Empire. In this daily feature, we celebrate Colton High’s rich history.
The Whitmer Auditorium is a classic building, built in 1953 to pay homage to Dr. Charles F. Whitmer.
Dr. Whitmer was a well-known physician and community supporter from Colton, California in the early-to-mid 1900’s. He was raised in Illinois, then relocated to Colton in 1910 where he became a vital part of the community.
One of his most notable achievements during his time in Colton included being a member of the first Colton city school board upon its foundation in 1918. He was President of the board by 1921, during which time he oversaw the high school’s unionization in 1921. He remained on the board until 1929.
Later he would relocate to San Francisco, open a private practice, and leave his mark on that community as well.
In Colton, however, the Whitmer Auditorium isn’t the only mark Dr. Whitmer left behind.
His 100-year old home still stands in Colton, and despite Whitmer’s legacy of public service, is rumored to be just as haunted as the infamous auditorium itself.
Recently, the CHS Publications Department experienced a major theft as over $20,000 in photography equipment was stolen from our studio over Spring Break. This included all cameras. Any amount you donate will help rebuild our program. Thank you!
Daphne Marquez is a sophomore at Colton High School. This is her second year working for the Pepper Bough. She is the editor for News and Features. She...
