Wapakoneta High School - Retrospect Yearbook (Wapakoneta, OH)

Page 11 text:

THE RETROSPECT SCHOOL LIFE George Washington George Washington, our great American soldier-statesman, who was first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen, was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia. Had “The Father of His Country” lived until the present time he would have celebrated his bi-centennial birthday February 22, of this year. This self-composed and dignified gentleman was a leading member in both the First and Second Continental Congresses. He, with his iron-like character, became the Commander-in Chief in the Revolutionary War. Under his leadership the Constitution was formed and George became the first president of the United States. Here it may be interesting to note that political leadership was unattractive to Washington. Three years after resigning from the office of president, this great man died at his home at Mount Vernon.

Page 13 text:

THE RETROSPECT Blu me High School The first graduating class, that of 1871, consisted of only three students. The exercises were held in the old school building where the Williamson building now stands and C. W. Williamson was superintendent of schools. The growth of population and business called for increased accommodations for school purposes, so the Williamson building was erected in 1874-75. In 1907 it seemed advisable to have a separate high school building. Need for c suitable location was one of the difficulties. This difficulty was removed when Mr T. N. Blume kindly donated the present site. Our school received its name, Blume High School, in honor of its donor. The building was adequate at the time and it was thought that it would not be filled to capacity for twenty years. Yet, in 1922, it became apparent that the build ing could not accommodate the growing student body. Through the untiring efforts of the citizens of Wapakoneta, the new annex was begun in March, 1924 and completed the same year. The new part contained a library, clubrooms, a spacious auditorium and extra classrooms with modern equipment. The completed structure is imposing and modern as well. At the present time we can well be proud of our school. Blume High houses some four hundred students and is ranked as a first-class institution, well-knwn by colleges.