San Diego High School Alumni History

School Buildings & Campuses

Russ School

Construction of the Russ School began in 1881, thank in part to Joseph Russ who donated all the necessary lumber and material costs. It opens its doors to its first of set of many students in 1882, cementing its place as San Diego’s first school.

Old Grey Castle

The Old Grey Castle, what San Diego High is still known as by some, first was constructed in 1907 and it’s what replaced the Russ School. The 2 story Grey Castle with Its striking gothic styling; prominent flanking towers, large spires, wide staircases, and later, thick ivy are what made San Diego High so memorable and distinctive to all who walked its halls