INDIANAPOLIS — History was honored Monday night at a school on the city's northeast side.
One of the first schools for Black students was designated a historical marker during a commemoration ceremony.
What is now known as The Oaks Academy on the corner of East 16th Street and Columbia Avenue was once John Hope School 26. It was of the only schools that Black children in Indianapolis could attend when it was established in 1901
"People have moved away from this area. We've lost so much of our history," said Sarah Spearman, who attended John Hope School 26.
On Monday evening, alumni and current students at The Oaks Academy witnessed the unveiling of the new historical marker.
"It shows their fortitude and what they were able to accomplish," said Casey Pfeiffer, the historical marker program director at Indiana Historical Bureau.
Spearman said of the ceremony, "It really did bring tears to my eyes because I'm saying we have not been forgotten. We have been trampled, but not forgotten."
Those who filled the school for the historic evening watched the first public screening of the documentary “The Glories of Our Journey.” It explains John Hope School 26 through the eyes of those who attended.
The documentary shows a predominantly Black community rising above to make educational milestones that were not openly granted.
"For generations now, people are going to be able to see this marker and the history of the people that existed in this community. And to have it partnered with the documentary it’s just going to continue to share that story to a number of audiences hopefully beyond the Indianapolis community," said Pfeiffer.
The documentary that debuted this evening will air at the Kan Kan Cinema at 7 p.m. Wednesday. Officials said at its peak, school number 26 was the largest elementary school in Indiana.
-
Boone County officials seek resident input on comprehensive plan
Residents armed with sticky notes, pens and ideas gathered for a Boone County Comprehensive Plan workshop to help map the county’s future and shape growth for the next 20 years.Buy now, pay later can be tempting — but experts warn of financial risks
A recent survey by LegalShield found that three in four Americans are using buy now, pay later services.Hobnob Corner Restaurant in Brown County closing after more than 40 years
The Hobnob Corner Restaurant in Nashville stayed the same, even as the leaves in Brown County changed every fall. However, the restaurant will serve its last meals once autumn is over.Greenfield man meets pilot who delivered his lifesaving heart transplant
A Greenfield man who dedicated part of his life to saving others is now alive because of a lifesaving mission and the pilot and team behind it all.