Louise Jones Allen Class of 1943

My thoughts go back to the late '30s and early '40s. I lived near Mt. Carmel School, seven miles north of Oakland, in my grade school days and had wonderful teachers such as Lula Hallowell and Irma Winkleback who encouraged us to continue our education at Oakland Township High School. In those days, buses were not available yet, which meant a seven-mile trip twice a day for our parents to get us to and from school. Many times, Oakland friends invited us to spend the night with them so we could attend an evening function or practices. I was very interested in OTHS music then and on through my life. The teachers and coaches were wonderful to cooperate to make sure that practices for programs and games scheduled without conflict and so we would be ready for performances. (I must say that we did very well!) Our principal was Edward B. Allen. In 1942, the teachers were Mildred Krughoff, Eleanor Jones, Helen Maberly, Helen Thomas, W.P. Amos (music), Clarence Hanover, Ben Richardson and Forest Buckler. Mr. Frank Orrick was our congenial custodian. We were certainly blessed with A1 teachers and Board of Education. They expected our best as they gave their best with as much extra time and effort as we needed. One thing I remember was how algebra was very hard for me and I was not very adept at solving problems and hesitated to confer with Mr. Forest Buckler who was a quiet, but stern math teacher. A few years ago at a Class of 1943 reunion I was still feeling guilty about my algebra grades. I apologized to Mr. Buckler. He replied, Louise, I am sorry but I cannot remember any low grades you are mentioning! I was thankful for the relief from the guilt of my early years! I am thankful for all the help I received from all the OTHS teachers. They allowed me to sing a solo at my 1943 Commencement, which started me on a lifetime of appreciating music and my education.

Submitted for the "OHS: 90 Years of Memories" event held May 12, 2012, to commemorate Oakland High School in Oakland, Illinois.