A Second Chance for a Schoolhouse in Galena, KS
It's another small victory for preservation: the saving of a historic 1878 country schoolhouse from the wrecking ball! The money has been raised and Union Chapel School, north of Galena, KS is being moved this week. See the article in the Joplin Globe:
http://www.joplinglobe.com/local/x928075390/Work-begins-to-move-rural-school
Carolyn McLean, who spearheaded the effort writes: “We are moving Union Chapel School this week in large sections and to its new home...I am thrilled...I was wondering if you know of any school being torn down if they would donate redwood siding, window glass or windows, etc." She added that she sure hopes there are none being torn down though.
The schoolhouse will be moved one-half mile west (on Union Chapel Road) and one-half mile north (105th) and around the corner to the west (Boston Mills Road).
Carolyn would like to take this opportunity to thank the people who made it happen:
1. Doug Hayes, Commercial Artist, for the drawing of "Union Chapel School" and all the time he spent to support the cause..
2. Kathy LaTurner Watkins and her husband for the generous donation to save the school. Many members of her family attended there and her Aunt Winnie was the cook for many years.
3. Bob McLean for his generous donation to save the school. We will also honor Greenwood School, Joplin, MO that the McLean's attended and all "Little Country Schools."
4. Ron Jones, JMH Construction Mgmt., Inc. for the donation of his personal time and some of his equipment. He attended a "Little Country School" in Iowa.
5. Orlena "Rosie" Thacker, age 81 (attended school there), Mildred Hayes Hart, The Leslie and McIntire families for their support and information about the school.
It is clear that these school moves are the ultimate in grassroots efforts, fostered by people like Carolyn and supporters on her Thank You List who could not watch the schoolhouse demolished. Union Chapel still needs donations and would prefer labor, materials and services, but will accept money too. Immediate needs include drive way gravel, foundation, flag pole and flag.
Union School, once restored, will be used as the historical center for the Union Chapel community, a place for former students or families of students to come and share stories and pictures, and will be used for monthly community Pot Luck dinners. There is much to look forward to when renovations are complete.
Carolyn McLean can be contacted via e-mail at grams123@wildblue.net
CSAA will monitor Union's progress for the future. Photo from Joplin Globe. Thank you.
