Welcome to 1964! That was the sign that greeted students as they entered Hiawatha for a 50th anniversary celebration at the school last month.
Hiawatha celebrated its 50th anniversary in style. Staff members got in “Madmen” mode by dressing for the occasion in pillbox hats, fedoras and many fancy dresses.
Hiawatha was completed in 1963 but opened its doors to students in September of 1964. The celebration ran throughout the day with assemblies and decorations but the big event took place in the evening. The cafeteria was filled with 300 community members as students informed the audience what life was like 50 years ago.
There was a special appearance by The Beatles and their fans (played by the Hiawatha chorus).
After discovering what was in the time capsule retrieved from inside the cornerstone in front of the building, all attendees were able to view what was going to be buried for future Hiawatha students to find in 2064.
After participating in a game based on the World’s Fair, all were invited to walk through the student art gallery and join in the reception hosted in the gymnasium that included refreshments and some music that stood the test of time.
