Inspiration can come from many sources – something beautiful, or poignant may spark the creative energy, or a need to express appreciation, to pay homage to those who have gone before. Eugene Washington was moved by all of these catalysts over three years ago to begin the task of expressing his way of saying thanks to some institutions of learning that left an indelible mark on him and his community.

The Hallowed Halls

While Washington acknowledges that his latest film’s genre most certainly falls under historical documentary, he insists that it is also a love story. "It is a love story that tells of the great love the teachers and administrators at these fine schools had for their students, and how they groomed and nurtured them preparing them for life." He explains that even though these schools were often inadequately funded, and teachers were forced to use second rate materials, they so cared for each and every student that they overcame any insufficiencies and gave everyone a first rate education.

Washington is an accomplished playwright and filmmaker. He was moved by comments after his 2002 play about civil rights matriarch Modjeska Simkins that essentially encouraged him to "tell our story or no one else will". Years later, his paradigm shifted again when he read a quote from the great author and Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Leonard Pitts who said "tell our story or someone else will". This is what he has sought out to do.

He received limited sponsorships to complete the film, but the lion’s share of the film’s budget came out of his pocket. However, he does not feel a sense of ownership of the film. Quite the contrary in fact as is evidenced by the film’s musical score. Instead of taking the easy route and using existing music, a 60 member chorus was assembled, made up of all former students of the three schools. Washington wanted them to feel ownership of this story, in fact he wants the entire community to feel ownership of this story as it is truly one of inspiration.

Earlier this month, a resolution/citation/honor was presented by Representatives Joe Neal, Leon Howard, Joe McEchern and the Richland County Delegation in honor of these three schools. Washington was on hand, along with proud graduates of these institutions for what was long overdue. And this film will further tout their greatness.

The film’s first screenings are set for this weekend, Saturday, June 30 and Sunday, July 1 at W.J. Keenan High School Theater (new Keenan) located at 316 Pisgah Church Road, Columbia. Show time for both dates is 5:00 PM. Tickets are $15 for General Admission, $12 for seniors 55 and up and for youth 18 and under. You may purchase tickets at Sure-Nuff Barber Shop, Flower Station, Manifest, and Brookland Baptist Federal Credit Union.

If you would like to purchase a copy of the film or your group is interested in organizing a screening of this must see documentary, please contact Eugene Washington by calling 803-786-1051 or 803-237-0429. You may email him at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Come witness one man’s inspirational testiment to the timeless influence of these institutions and their determination to not only educate African American youth, but to form them into great citizens, visionaries and leaders of today.