A reunion lunch and school tour was held at Chumuckla School, May 28. Those attending included past students from as early as 1941. Nearly 200 came to share memories. The then new school was completed by Mr. Phil Harris, the patriarch of a family of builders and brick masons whose legacy continues in the area to this day. John Barnes (now deceased), who was the respected VA representative for our county was always proud of being the “very first” to graduate - receiving his diploma first in line since his name was early in the alphabet. John went on to join the Army and was in the first waves on the beaches of Normandy in 1944. One of his classmates from 1941, Kathleen Renfroe Rush and her sister in law - Mrs. W.R. Renfroe were present to enjoy the school tour and the pot luck lunch with many friends from the ‘40’s through the ‘70’s. Some boys who received diplomas in 1943 and 1944 were not present to accept their diplomas. They had already gone into military service. Alvin Enfinger and John Horton both said they were represented at graduation ceremonies by an empty chair. A wide range of students from the 1950’s, ‘60’s and ‘70s were present with memorabilia and stories to share. The MC for the program was Rick Hunsucker (‘67) who has served as principal of the elementary school. Mrs. Sherry Smith, the current principal, was a gracious host for a reflective tour of the old school and the new facilities. Several men were heard to point out particular rooms and to remember ancient teachers where they met the force of discipline.
After the reunion event, some of the former students took a tour of Coon Hill cemetery and the museum maintained by Lavern Howell. The great heritage of Chumuckla is faithfully passed along through these treasures.
An informal group of students is developing a plan for future school-wide reunions. They hope to find a convenient date that will remain the same every year. Individual classes and smaller groups will continue to hold gatherings throughout the year. Former students, teachers, staff and friends are always welcome. More pictures HERE
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