LEBANON, Tenn. (WKRN) — For most, the building off North Castle Heights Avenue is simply Lebanon City Hall, but for others, it's a time capsule.

Lebanon was once home to Castle Heights Military Academy. After closing its doors in 1986, one man has been preserving the history for the past several decades. 

“It was always a part of my life from the day I was born," Rob Hosier, president of the Castle Heights National Alumni Association, said. "I loved it up here."

Hosier's parents sent him to Castle Heights Military Academy when he was in seventh grade, and he graduated from the academy in 1963. His father was the swim coach.  

“You talk about hot! That's what I would have worn — then the hat would have been with the white cover on it,” Hosier said, pointing to a uniform. 

The school first opened in 1902 and was originally co-ed and non-military. However, that changed in 1917.

“When the United States enters what becomes the first World War," Hosier said. "That's when it becomes all male and all military."

Men were later drafted. The school wasn’t only known for military training, though. It was also well-regarded for its sports teams.  

“Here is Pete [Rademacher] in his boxing gear right here and that is Bill Dudley, who was the champion swimmer on the '48 Olympic team," Hosier said.

Other notable alumni included Gregory and Duane Allman of "The Allman Brothers Band," who were a few years younger than Hosier.

Enrollment started to drop through the years and the academy was in debt before ultimately closing their doors in 1986. 

“It was a shocker to a lot of people and it was sad,” Hosier 

For Hosier, it was heartbreak.  

“If I have a hobby, it's Castle Heights," Hosier said. "That's all I do."

Not long after the academy closed, Rob decided he was going preserve its history. Soon after, he was elected president of the alumni association. Everything from donated awards and trophies to sports memorabilia and uniforms have been preserved.

Aside from the physical mementos, Hosier has hundreds — if not thousands — of stories.

"Oh gosh! You don’t even know the half of it,” Hosier said.

This all became a passion for Hosier to help keep the history and legacy alive. 

“I learned a long time ago if you enjoy doing something, keep doing it. Don't stop ... I'm thankful that we lasted this last this long, and the day will come — thank goodness it will happen when I’m gone because I don’t want to live to see it — when this will no longer exist," Hosier said. "And [someone will] look around here [and say] 'What we will we go with all of this?'"

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/on-tour-middle-tn/castle-heights-military-academy/