On Tuesday, May 26th, the halls of QE were filled with alumni, past staff, students, and community members to say goodbye to our beloved building at 123 South Seventh Street. It was a wonderful “going away party” for our 98-year-old Quakertown Elementary. But she wasn’t always QE....
Built in 1929, Quakertown Elementary was originally constructed as the town’s Junior-Senior High School. The school housed grades 7 through 12, while two older buildings on 6th Street served as the elementary schools.
In 1957, the new Senior High School was completed, and the 7th Street building became the “junior” high school. By 1967, additions to the Senior High School and construction of the new junior high school (Strayer) were completed, and renovations and additions to the 7th Street building began immediately.
By December 1968, the school was officially dedicated as Quakertown Elementary School.
Former high school students—like Class of 1955 graduate Jane Rantz Hofling—came to see the upgrades and relive cherished memories. Past students left heartfelt messages for teachers on their classroom whiteboards. And we were thrilled to welcome back former staff members to give QE one last hug, including Mrs. Detweiler, former QE Building Administrator, whose dedicated bench in the library will be coming home with her at the end of the year in honor of her 29 years of service.
It was a wonderful evening and a lovely farewell celebration for our beloved 123 South Seventh Street. Thank you to everyone who attended!
