BESSEMER AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Organized January 19, 2002 3rd  Quarter, 2007 - Volume 4, Issue 3 Website - www.bessemerhistoricalsociety.com

Notice of Membership Meetings September 8 at 2:00 PM- Birthday Party September 22 at 11:00 AM - Annual Meeting at Elk & Hound October 18 at 2:00 PM November 15 at 2:00 PM December 20 at 2:00 PM at the Bessemer Heritage Center

Officers and Directors President - Ed Sandene Vice President - Catherine McLean Treasurer/Editor - Lou Kalan Secretary - Janet Gheller Membership - Dolores Sandene Directors at Large- Dan Cvengros James Gheller Historian - Fran McCarthy

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In August, the Bessemer Area Historical Society celebrated the centennial of the A.D. Johnston High School. Dedicated in June, 1907, it is a beautiful building, and a source of pride to the community. However, in a larger sense, we really celebrated the excellent teaching staff, principals, superintendents, school board members, custodians and paraprofessionals who contributed to the outstanding education that the children of the community received there. And we acknowledge all the students who have advanced through the school system, from the pioneer children who attended the one room school to the recent graduates. The tradition of hard work and high standards, passed down from the early settlers, mark their lives, and make them the valuable members of this community and of the other areas where they reside. Al Gaiss wrote, "The secret to Bessemer's success has been its people. Those loving, kind, and generous people who both give freely of their time and efforts while digging deeply into their pockets whenever needed to support their schools and community. ....Bessemer schools remain a beacon of light to children and their parents seeking a haven of opportunity, and a safe place to live." We, the Bessemer Area Historical Society salute the faculties, students, and members of the community who have made our school system the success that it is. Catherine McLean, vice-president