In the early morning hours of August 31, 2012, a fire broke out above the auditorium at St. Petersburg High School. The historic school at 2501 5th Avenue North had stood since 1926 and was already recognized as an important part of the city’s architectural heritage.
The fire began around 4:00 a.m. and spread from the roof into the auditorium before reaching an equipment room. Quick action by St. Petersburg Fire Rescue helped prevent the flames from spreading throughout the historic building. The school ultimately sustained more than $1 million in smoke and water damage. Repairs followed, and the auditorium reopened to students that December.
Designed by nationally recognized school architect William B. Ittner, the Mediterranean Revival building was celebrated as a million-dollar high school when it opened in 1926. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
Today, St. Pete High continues to serve generations of students.
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