Mr. Mark Briggs has been the impetus behind the preservation of historical memorabilia at San Jose High. It began with a small collection in a corner of the library and with the latest restoration, has become the Heritage Room with photos and objects spanning the years from the beginning of the school.
Here are some photos before the restoration project.
Many people were involved in the project. Barbara Peddy was in charge and Principal Cary Catching and her staff were invaluable with their assistance. The Class of '55 made a $1000 donation, and the painting and installations were supervised by Pat Mark (of Mark Electric).
Here's an excerpt from his letter to his Electical Union:
"I am a graduate of the San Jose High Class of '55. Mr. Mark Briggs, who is 90 years old and has been battling cancer, has had a lifelong dream and been working tirelessly towards this goal of a historical museum to showcase some of SJ High's many contributions to our community. It is in this shared dream that many of us have joined with Mr.Briggs' efforts to display as many as we can of the archives, artifacts and other historical items from the school's storied 150-year history. It is our sincere hope that current students, alumni and members of our community will one day very soon be able to enjoy the works from generations past."
His union came through with a donation of $5,000! Tap Plastics donated all the window UV protective film and Cambrian Glass gave a discount on the cabinet glass. Many others contributed time, money and encouragement.
Following are photos during the restoration.
And now for photos of the final project (although it will never be 'finished'). The purpose of this room is to display the school's history through objects and photos and to educate students and researchers about San Jose High School's affect on the community.
At the opening celebration of the Heritage Room restoration project, I noticed that our '54 graduation class photo was missing. After some inquiries, it turned out that Adrienne Etheridge Durfee actually had an original which she was willing to donate. Before she did so, I made a copy which is posted here. For those of you who don't even remember we took such a photo, myself included, here's a chance to see how much you've changed over the years.....
If anyone has any memorabilia he would like to donate to the Heritage Room, it will be very much appreciated. Photos, school newspaper clippings, banners, prom cards, etc. are all welcome. Please contact me for Mr. Briggs' email address and phone number.
