In 1897, the year Placer High School was established with only 17 students, William McKinley was inaugurated as the 25th president of the United States. Fifteen men competed in the first Boston Marathon. The Library of Congress Building opened in Washington, DC. The Klondike gold rush began. And several renowned Americans were born, including aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner, and baseball player Lefty O’Doul.
For 125 years, Placer High has stood on the hill as witness to modern history. From the horrors of war to the promise of peace…economic depressions to dot-com booms…horse drawn carriages to space travel…and everything in between, Placer graduates have been an integral part of local and world history. Graduates have gone on to serve in congress, as WWII aces, cutting-edge scientists, distinguished judges, professional athletes, media stars, business leaders, and so much more.
The Hillmen Foundation strives to connect our alumni with their classmates and the school that launched the lives of generations of Auburn teens.
Clarence "Bud" Anderson and Dean "Diz" Laird
The new Alumni Center in the Earl Crabbe Gym reminds visitors of the Hillmen legacy of achievement in our community and world.
We are proud supporters of the Placer Hall of Fame and the Placer Athletic Hall of Fame, honoring distinguished graduates, faculty, staff, and coaches.
Grants to the widely-attended All-Class Reunions and Centennial Celebration united Hillmen of all ages and brought economic benefit to the entire community.
Our special events, such as the popular Hillmen Tailgater in Central Square, have honored Hillmen Heroes like WWII fighter aces Clarence “Bud” Anderson and Dean “Diz” Laird (both class of 1939), and served as a mini-reunion for graduates and friends.
Individual class reunions are also supported by The Hillmen Foundation, including maintaining a master list of graduates by class.
Clarence "Bud" Anderson and Dean "Diz" Laird
