Hanover Township unveils Bartlett Elementary School Heritage Marker

The entire student body joined Township and U-46 officials in the dedication of the Hanover Township Heritage Marker unveiling on May 26 at Bartlett Elementary School.

"This is a momentous occasion, not only for the Township, but for the students that will remember this ceremony and the important impact local history has in our community," said Brian P. McGuire, Hanover Township supervisor during the ceremony.

Bartlett Elementary School is the 10th location to receive a Township Heritage Marker.

In 1874, Bartlett School opened its doors for community youth, one year after the village's establishment in 1873.

Originally serving grades one through 10, Bartlett School was the only school in the village until 1970. The school was also the hub of village activities and functioned as a community-gathering place for civic organizations, war efforts, Girl and Boy Scout Troops and community plays and events.

The school was first located above a general store before its move to the southwest corner of North and Hickory avenues. In 1929, that structure was razed and the school moved to its current location, where it continues to serve students of Hanover Township and the Village of Bartlett in grades K-six.

"It was an honor to witness such a great, commemorative event for the school I grew up in," said Dr. Suzanne Johnson, U-46 assistant superintendent for teaching and learning and a former student of Bartlett Elementary School.

"Bartlett Elementary has achieved many milestones since I was a student, and the school continues to strive for academic excellence in helping students reach their full potential."

Also speaking at the ceremony was Emma Marston, an assistant at the Village of Bartlett Museums, who provided remarks on the history of the school.

"Bartlett Elementary School is the oldest school in Bartlett, and it has been an important part of community life since its establishment in 1873, hosting many events and activities over the years.

Several alumni have even been elected to Township positions," Marston said. "The school may look different today, but its rich history connects Bartlett's past and future."

The Heritage Marker program began in 2011 and was created to recognize and promote the many historic locations in Hanover Township.

For information on the program, call (847) 888-8329 or email iwcr@hanover-township.org.

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