The Charles Bender Performing Arts Center, formally the Charles Bender High School, was built in 1929. It was Humble’s only high school from 1930 through 1965. Originally built on the location of the old Humble Grammar School that was destroyed by fire in 1929, the building was designed by architect, Harry D. Payne.
Charles Bender High School was one of the most advanced school buildings in Harris County when it opened in 1930 because it had a built-in cafeteria. It’s interesting to note that the former Texas Governor Pat M. Neff was the main speaker at the dedication ceremony on February 22, 1930.
