Miller High School alumni are being asked to close their eyes and think back to their last-day-of-school picnic and then fast forward to July 15 in Miller.
On that day, to commemorate the 85th anniversary of Miller High School alumni, a picnic is being planned to celebrate the years of learning and growing at Miller High School from 1922 to 1955.
There are only 76 known living alumni, ages 70 to 100. Miller Memorial Committee members thought it was time to honor the 182 deceased by erecting a historical marker and publishing a complete memorial book with pictures, events and stories from 1992 to 2007.
On July 15, the plans for the high school reunion are to gather at the Miller Church at noon or in the school yard. A complimentary lunch will be provided in a Miller High School bucket. After lunch there will be a roll call and memorial service with the grand finale being the dedication and unveiling of the Miller High School memorial marker. The honor of the unveiling will be given to the oldest and youngest alumni present.
Anyone wishing to contribute to the marker may send a donation between 85 cents and $85 — to mark the special year — to Wanda Paxton, 728 Lord St., Osage City, KS 66523. Supporters may contribute before or at the picnic. Children are welcome to be included if they wish to bring 85 cents to have their names included in the history book.
The memorial book will be published after the reunion. Those who want to contribute to the history book with pictures (send only copies or originals) or stories of their days at Miller High School can send them to Alberta Brinkman, historian, 2058 Fanestil Drive, Emporia, KS 66801. Send by July 10 or bring to the picnic.
Stories can include information such as: Did you walk to school? Did you ride a horse? Did you have a favorite teacher? Subject? Sporting events or county music contests.
Dinner bucket reservations should be made by July 11 and should be sent to Anna Dickson, food supervisor, 3345 Road W7, Reading, KS 66868.