A Brief History Of Memphis University School
Messrs. Edwin Sidney Werts and James White Sheffey Rhea founded MUS as a college preparatory school for boys in the fall of 1893. (Contrary to popular myth, the school was never formally named "Werts and Rhea." The proprietors had named it Memphis University School even before it opened.) Their purpose was threefold: to prepare boys for competitive colleges, to provide them a liberal education, and to help them develop into cultured Christian gentlemen.
Patterned largely after Werts' alma mater, the University of Virginia, MUS embraced high academic standards, strong moral development, and an emphasis on athletics. In a short time the school's reputation was so sound that many of America's leading colleges began to exempt its students from entrance examinations or allow them to take the exams at MUS. Four of these competitive colleges gave tuition-free scholarships to leading MUS students.
After a disappointing initial enrollment, MUS prospered. Within three years it outgrew its temporary quarters in the old Bethel Building and occupied the Clara Conway Institute at 297 Poplar. When this rented facility was sold shortly afterward, the proprietors built their own building on a small campus near the corner of Madison and Manassas. There the school remained until 1936, when economic factors forced its closure. Rhea and Werts had died in 1917 and 1923, respectively. Over its last dozen years, the MUS principals were Howard G. Ford and Charles C. Wright, long-term teachers at MUS.
During its 43-year history MUS educated and influenced many young men who made strong contributions in a number of fields. In addition to numerous prominent professional, business, and civic leaders, the school produced literary figures like Richard Halliburton and Nash Buckingham. Its graduates also included military heroes like members of the Grider family. George Grider later served as Congressman for the Memphis district. Other MUS alumni served as city councilmen, judges, and members of the Tennessee legislature. Many more were community builders without holding office. Through such men the school's spirit and values survived the Great Depression and rose again after World War II.
During the economic boom of the 1950's, Memphis University School was founded anew. Its rolling, 94-acre site was made available at a bargain price by the Wills and May families, whose sons attended the new MUS. Growing out of Presbyterian Day School, which had absorbed the dying Pentecost-Garrison School, MUS began classes in 1955. Under the leadership of Col. Ross M. Lynn and a dedicated Board of Trustees chaired by Alexander Wellford, the school made amazing progress. By 1958 its physical plant was adequate and it graduated its first seniors. Like the first MUS, the new one emphasized academic excellence, high moral standards, strong athletic development, and gentlemanly conduct. Its student-enforced honor system became the moral heart of the school.
The 1950s seemed a time of conformity and self-indulgence, but seeds of cultural tension were beginning to appear. During the 1960s the new MUS grew to maturity. Seniors acquired off-campus lunch privileges; Hutchison School moved in next door; the Hyde Chapel was built; and sophisticated language labs were added. Leigh MacQueen became Academic Dean; Bill Hatchett guided annual student tours to Europe; and MUS worked at being more like its namesake. Clubs and other extracurricular activities proliferated as students increasingly helped run the school. The faculty became stronger academically and its membership more stable and interactive.
Nationally, the late 1960s were the days of student rebellion, civil-rights struggles, anti-Vietnam protests, "flower power," folk music, the Beatles, and the counter-culture. Such trends were slow to reach the Mid-South, but Memphis drew national attention in 1968 with its sanitation-workers' strike and the murder of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Then, like the rest of the nation, most Memphians underwent a revolution in racial sensitivity.
The 1970s replaced the idealism of the previous decade with harsher realities. Utopianism gave way to Watergate, the Nixon resignation, energy shortages, "stagflation," the Iran hostage crisis, and mass disillusionment and cynicism. As the nation seemed to be coming apart, however, the 1970s provided an era of growth and consolidation for MUS. Early in the decade the Hull Lower School and the Hyde Library were erected. At mid-decade the school added the Fisher Fine Arts Wing to the Chapel, giving greater scope to students' creative impulses. As the 1970s phased out, MUS added the McCaughan Science Building, completing the school's basic physical-plant needs. The popular-electronics age hit MUS in force over the same decade. Evin Perdue introduced early stages of computer technology; MacQueen installed the television studio; and the Ham Radio Club presaged an electronics revolution.
Near the end of the decade, Col. Lynn and Alex Wellford both retired. Associate Headmaster Eugene Thorn then stepped in to run the school and MacQueen became associate head. "Buddy" Morrison chaired the Board for five years, then was succeeded by an alumnus of the new MUS, Kent Wunderlich.
The 1970s also brought MUS racial diversity, long-haired students, and the release from study halls for students without academic or deportment difficulties. Ellis Haguewood began his irreverent and hilarious school day picture day (SDPD) talks and sixteen-year stint as yearbook adviser. The school's academics became stronger in a climate of diversity. Both faculty and curriculum grew much stronger through the 1970s and the 1980s and enrollment crested at near 600 students.
The 1980s saw the school graying in some areas. It lost two beloved leaders, with the deaths of Col. Lynn and Lower School Principal John Murry Springfield. Growth, innovation, and academic excellence continued, however, under Headmaster Gene Thorn's leadership. In 1990 the school constructed the Sue H. Hyde Sports and Physical Education Center, symbolizing that it had become as much an athletic as an academic powerhouse. Thorn retired in 1992 and William Campbell served for three years as MUS Headmaster. Then, following a meticulous national search, the Board of Trustees selected MUS Upper School Principal and Interim Headmaster Ellis Haguewood to lead the school.
Under the leadership of Headmaster Haguewood and Chairman of the Board Ben Adams (1996-2004), MUS implemented a long-term strategic plan. This included a master plan for expanding and updating the physical plant and a massive capital campaign (more than $21 million total) to fund improvements. The Crump Firm's master plan included a new tennis center with a clubhouse, renovation and expansion of the Hull Lower School, erecting a commodious new Campus Center, and razing and replacing the Upper School and the Clack Dining Hall. Construction, including the new Dunavant Upper School, was completed by January, 2003. Alumnus Trow Gillespie, who had spearheaded the fundraising, replaced Ben Adams in 2004 as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. In 2008, Bob Loeb became Chairman of the Board of Trustees, followed by Sam Graham in 2013.
A great deal has changed since 1893, but MUS graduates continue to uphold the school's fine traditions and to furnish leadership locally and across the nation. The school's colors, the same red and blue patterned after those of Harvard and Yale in 1898, still adorn the shield of the school's crest. Surmounting it, the owl of wisdom proclaims the MUS motto, Veritas Honorque, "Truth and Honor." Like its namesake, the school's proudest legacy is its honor system and strong moral atmosphere. As at its founding, Memphis University School continues to keep its focus on its charges and to provide them with superb preparation for higher education and a purpose-driven life.
Haguewood retired in 2017 after serving 22 years as headmaster and a previous 26 years as a teacher and administrator. Under his leadership the school reached new heights academically, athletically, and in the arts. Additional major improvements to the campus included Bloodworth Music Studio, Stokes Stadium, Field House indoor tennis facility, Robotics Lab, and Kroeker-Petrosyan Fencing Center.
After a nationwide search, the Board of Trustees selected Peter D. “Pete” Sanders of Greenville, S.C., as headmaster, and he began his tenure in June 2017.
In the 2018-19 school year, MUS celebrated the 125th anniversary of its founding in 1893.
A new Strategic Plan was undertaken and completed during 2020 – a notably transformative year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Legacy Forward plan incorporated six strategic goals focused on academic excellence, faculty development, facilities enhancement, inclusivity, visibility and brand, and sustainability. Work on the goals began August 1, 2021, and included an ambitious new Campus Master Plan.
After a nationwide search, the Board of Trustees selected Peter D. “Pete” Sanders of Greenville, S.C., as headmaster, and he began his tenure in June 2017.
In the 2018-19 school year, MUS celebrated the 125th anniversary of its founding in 1893.
A new Strategic Plan was undertaken and completed during 2020 – a notably transformative year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Legacy Forward plan incorporated six strategic goals focused on academic excellence, faculty development, facilities enhancement, inclusivity, visibility and brand, and sustainability. Work on the goals began August 1, 2021, and included an ambitious new Campus Master Plan.
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Williamson Presents Veterans Chapel
Christopher Williamson ’06 spoke in chapel about his experience in the U.S. Marine Corps as part of our Veterans Week Chapel Series, organized by the Alumni Veteran Committee. Williamson said that his four years at MUS prepared him well for his military service and for his career as the COO and wealth advisor for Red Door Wealth Management.Read More -
Chapel Features Military Panel
Mr. Harvey Kay ’75, Lt. Col. David Malone ’75, and Mr. Bruce Moore ’77 distinguished our Veterans Week panel November 13. Moderator George Wilmott ’26 posed questions about their military service and asked their advice for Owls considering serving their country.Read More -
Eddie Batey Honored with Portrait
The Alumni Executive Board honored Faculty Emeritus Eddie Batey with the 20th artwork in the Faculty Portrait Series. Family and friends gathered in the Dining Hall October 17 to celebrate the unveiling of his portrait, painted by Mississippi artist Katherine Buchanan. Led by AEB President Horace Carter ’89, the evening featured tributes from Headmaster Pete Sanders, Headmaster Emeritus Ellis Haguewood, and Christ Covenant School Dean of Students Malcolm Saxon ’93. Shelby County Commissioner David Bradford ’95 presented Batey with a resolution acknowledging his accomplishments.Read More -
Dunavant Alumnus of the Year
The Alumni Executive Board named Bill Dunavant ’78 the Alumnus of the Year at its annual awards luncheon September 19. Chair of the Greater Memphis Chamber Chairman’s Circle, Dunavant has made it a priority to change the Memphis narrative by focusing on the positive aspects of the city. Through this position, he is challenging businesses to advocate for accessible education, job attainment, and community engagement.Read More -
Sherman Accepts Volunteer Award
Read MoreThe Alumni Executive Board honored Scott Sherman ’89 as Volunteer of the Year at their Awards Luncheon September 19. During his recently completed two-year term as president of the D. Eugene Thorn Society, Sherman led the Executive Committee to record-setting years for both members and dollars. -
Kay Moves to New Role
Assistant Head for Advancement Perry Dement has announced that Harvey Kay ’01 has been promoted to director of Development. Kay joined the Development Office as director of the Annual Fund in September 2023. In this newly created position, he will oversee the school’s annual fundraising efforts as well as alumni and parent programs.Read More -
Olympian Returns to Alma Mater
Olympic decathlete Harrison Williams, Class of 2014, spent the morning on campus, speaking at the Manhood Breakfast, joining in the Talking The U Podcast, and sharing his journey in an interview with Track and Cross Country Head Coach Drew Hinote during chapel.Read More -
Trivia and Mempops Mark Founders Day
Messrs. Werts and Rhea would surely be proud of the celebration today in honor of our dear founders who opened Memphis University School on September 13, 1893.Read More -
Harkins Shares Alcy Ball Mission
Alcy Ball Development Corporation Executive Director Seth Harkins spoke in chapel about his work in the Alcy Ball neighborhood of South Memphis. ABDC’s mission is to “develop a thriving, resident-led community reflecting the Kingdom of God, through the following programs: Connect, Train, Restore.”Read More -
US Owls and Vets Breakfast: Sept. 4
Upper School Owls: Are you curious about college and career opportunities available via military service? Are you considering ROTC or a military academy? Want to hear from MUS alumni who have served?Read More -
Dunavant Kicks Off Focus on Memphis
Headmaster Pete Sanders wants our home city to be a focus for Owls this school year, so he enlisted Bill Dunavant ’78, chair the Greater Memphis Chamber Chairman’s Circle, to speak at the first chapel assembly August 16.Read More -
Flip Eikner Honored for Service
Read MoreCiting his 41 years of extraordinary service to his alma mater, Headmaster Pete Sanders presented Academic Dean Flip Eikner with the 2024 Jean Barbee Hale Award for Outstanding Service. Faculty members gathered for the monthly meeting rose in spontaneous cheers and applause. -
Felsenthal Rogers Leadership Speaker
Read MoreMr. Edward Felsenthal ’84, executive chairman of TIME and senior advisor, Office of the CEO, at Salesforce, spoke in Hyde Chapel as the 2024 Rogers Leadership Forum guest. -
McKay Interim Head Track Coach
Read MoreMr. Orlando McKay has been named interim head coach of the track and field team. McKay has served as an assistant track coach since 1997. In that time, the Owls claimed three state championships and 14 region titles. -
Alston Announces Retirement
Coach Bobby Alston, Memphis University School head football and track coach and athletic director, has announced his retirement after 47 years at the school, effective December 31.Read More -
Announcing our Inaugural Grade 6!
Read MoreWhile our 130-year rich legacy is rooted in tradition, our institution is ever-evolving. Part of that evolution includes the introduction of a sixth grade in fall 2024!
Following a multiyear study, our task force determined that an earlier introduction to MUS would benefit Mid-South boys, especially those graduating from K-5 schools. We will accept a limited number for our inaugural sixth grade, so apply now. -
Owls Give Thanks in Chapel
Robert J. Hussey, Sr. Chair of Religion Clay Smythe ’85 led the annual Thanksgiving Chapel November 21, by reading from the “1928 Book of Common Prayer.” Max Williams ’24 then read Deuteronomy 8:7-18; Instructor in Religion Elliott Dent, Psalm 65; and Tucker Davis ’25, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15.Read More -
Observing Veterans Day
MUS honors all veterans of the United States Armed Forces today and every day. Thank you for your service and sacrifice!Read More -
Chapel Honors Veterans
Maj. Gen. F. Dexter Tutor – who served as special assistant to the director, Air National Guard in Arlington, Virginia, until 2008 – spoke in Hyde Chapel about the history and significance of Veterans Day and the brave men and women who have defended the freedoms we enjoy. He held the attention of the assembled students as he recounted – without notes – compelling stories of military heroism and sacrifice.Read More -
Military Panelists Enlighten Owls
Thanks to the members of our distinguished alumni panel who answered questions posed by History Instructor Jason Peters ’88 on life in the military. The presentation was generated through the MUS Alumni Veterans Committee, which serves as a resource for the school community to provide education, awareness, and inspiration regarding military service and veteran causes.Read More
Administrative Team:
List of 10 members.
Memphis University School
6191 Park Avenue | Memphis, TN 38119 | Main: (901) 260-1300