Perry Township School marks its 175th birthday

Visitors may browse on their own during those hours while a narrated visit will be conducted by Kay Caldwell at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. if visitors wish to hear more history of the school.

The school’s cornerstone is dated 1846 but was not open for students until 1847, making 2022 its 175th anniversary.

The room for fifth- through eighth-graders is now a museum room of mostly township-related artifacts with hundreds of photos, family histories and an original bell from the West Freedom Academy as well as a horse-drawn mail buggy that was recently acquired from the Clarion County Historical Society.

Seventh- and eighth-grades were eliminated in this area around the 1940s causing the school to be closed completely following the 1954-55 school year.

The society will also have a display at the West Freedom Park, the center of Community Days activities, which will include a free gift as well as books and other items for sale.

Come join the celebration and learn lots of fun facts and historical events regarding the Perry Township area.

A list of events for Perry Township Community Days includes:

Aug. 19

3 to 8 p.m. – Food and ice cream available for purchase; information tables, engaging fun and games for families; square dancing begins at 5 p.m.

Aug. 20

8 a.m. – 5k walk/run at Park Hill Church

Noon – national anthem, veterans program

1 p.m. – “Embrace don’t erase” program

1 to 4 p.m. – car cruise at Park Hill Church

4 to 7 p.m. – Perry Township VFD chicken BBQ

5 to 7 p.m. – Michael Leslie music

5 to 8 p.m. – Pet Extravaganza pet parade nail trims

5 to 6 p.m. – rabies clinic

Aug. 21

10 a.m. – community church service

Noon – lunch (free)

Noon to 3 p.m. – family fun and games.

All events are held at or near the West Freedom Community Park located at 73 Collier Road in Parker.