Nostalgic Memories Emerge During Museum Day at Hoopes School

On a recent Saturday, the Hoopes School in Lewistown came alive with stories from its past. The second annual Juniata River Valley Museum Day brought together over 80 guests, including former students Brought and Jeff Hartley of Belleville, for free tours of the historic school.

The nostalgic atmosphere was palpable as Brought shared his childhood memories of attending first through third grade at Hoopes School. He recalled playing Red Rover during recess and getting punished by his teacher, Mrs. Goss, who would draw a ring on the blackboard and make students stand with their noses touching it.

Brought also reminisced about his very first day of school, where he made his mother stay with him for the entire day due to his initial struggles to adjust. His stories brought back memories not only for himself but also for others who attended the Museum Day event.

As Brought and Hartley toured the school and its grounds, they relived their childhood days, sharing laughter and tears along the way. The old stove, one of the few original furnishings left in the school, was a particular highlight for both men.

Their friendship, forged through shared experiences at Hoopes School, is a testament to the power of nostalgia and the importance of preserving our collective history. As they walked through the halls, memories flooded back, triggered by the sights and sounds of their childhood.

The Hoopes School's Museum Day event was just one of nearly 20 museums that offered free tours to guests in the Juniata Valley on Saturday. It was a day filled with stories, laughter, and reminiscence, all centered around preserving the past for future generations.

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