Christian Fenger Academy High School, formerly called Curtis High School, first opened in 1903 as a branch of Curtis Elementary School, and was located on the corner of 115th & State Street. Both elementary and high schools shared a principal, and total enrollment numbered only 80 students.

In 1905, the high school was placed on the accredited list of Chicago schools. Three years later in 1908, the first class, consisting of only thirteen students, was graduated. In 1910, in honor of the noted Danish surgeon, the school was renamed the Christian Fenger High School, now Christian Fenger Academy High School, (typically shortened to Fenger High School).

As student enrollment and faculty members increased, it was evident that the old State Street structure was no longer adequate to meet the needs of the growing body. Construction began on a larger, modern facility, and in 1926, the new building at the present site of 112th and Wallace streets was completed.

Fenger competes in the Chicago Public League (CPL) and is a member of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA). The school sport teams are stylized as the Titans and the Lady Titans. The boys' Baseball team won an Illinois state title and placed first in 1945–46 and were public league champions three times; 1945–46, 1951–52, 1985–86. Fenger Football team won Chicago prep bowls titles four times; 1937–38, 1939–40, 1944–45, 1953–54.The boys' Golf team were public league champions two times; 1970–71, 1972–73. Fenger girls' Basketball team were regional champions in 2012–13.

Throughout its history, Christian Fenger Academy High School has a long tradition of school and community involvement by the student body. Their participation in the many activities of the school’s clubs and organizations is reflected in the material that comprises the collection at the Chicago Public Library, Harold Washington Library Center, Special Collections.