Our History
Mr. McCann poses with his 1930 Vocational art class at Frankford High School (McCann pictured 2nd row, far left).The School, which was founded in 2006 by David and Sandy Corneal, is named after Charles B. McCann, David Corneal's grandfather.
As a high school art instructor during the 1930's and 1940's, Mr. McCann taught the elements of drawing and lettering. He also taught the fundamentals of design, composition and illustration. These principles enabled his students to pursue post-secondary education at art institutes and colleges. Successful positions were attained in careers such as advertising, public relations, magazine illustration and fashion design.
“Primi Ten”: Spring 1931 Students were selected for their artistic achievements. Many McCann students attended The School of Industrial Art, presently called The University of the Arts.Mr. McCann's teaching philosophy was simple; anyone can learn how to draw. He impacted students’ lives; exchanging ideas, mentoring and developing their "artistic eye" of seeing perspective and relationships.
During the summer months, he would escort students from Philadelphia to the countryside, giving them the opportunity to explore new environments and allowing students to apply their creative skills.
Mr. McCann’s passion was to educate, enrich and allow expression in art. His philosophies are the framework of the C. Barton McCann School of Art. Through the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. David Corneal, Mr. Mac’s vision continues to thrive in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania.
