The second location of the state-sponsored Union Academy was built on this location in 1868 after the first structure on South Main Street was burned during the Civil War. The city of Clinton took over operations of the academy upon the establishment of Clinton City Schools in 1895. A new building was constructed in 1903 and was known as Clinton High School. In 1927, the city turned over operations of the high school to the county, and a new building was constructed next door. The old school building then became Clinton Grammar School and was replaced by the current Clinton Elementary School building in 1961.
