One hundred years of history was on display at the June 20 meeting of the Northport-East Northport Union Free School District Board of Education as part of a special ceremony celebrating a prominent moment in the district’s history. The William J. Brosnan Building, formerly named the Laurel Avenue School, turned 100 years old this year, and a time capsule from its founding, buried in February 1924, was opened for the first time.

As visitors entered the cafeteria of the William J. Brosnan Building, they were greeted by displays curated by students from the Northport High School History Honor Society advised by Claire Moore and Nick Cerda that represented each decade of the last century. The displays consisted of a collection of old uniforms, photos, yearbooks and newspaper articles relating to the district’s history.

Northport Historical Society Executive Director Teresa Reid then presented the district with the Century Award, recognizing the 100th anniversary of the William J. Brosnan Building.

The students then presented the story of how the time capsule was discovered, providing context to the location and the efforts of the students, district and the Northport Historical Society that made the night possible.

“Tonight, we celebrate the 100-year anniversary of this William J. Brosnan Building,” Northport High School junior Oliver Kotowicz said. “Over these 100 years, this building has served many purposes, from being a middle school, a high school and the school we gather in here tonight, to celebrate not only its centennial, but also all of the history that this building embodies.”

The time capsule was then opened by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Dave Moyer, Board of Education President Dr. Lorenzo Licopoli and Board of Education trustee Carol Taylor.

In an instant, 100 years of history was uncovered, and the items found inside were announced and displayed to those in attendance to enjoy the rich history of the district.

“A special thanks to all of the people who put in all of the hard work to make this happen, especially our students who always do a great job and rise to the top when they work on a project,” Dr. Moyer said. “Thank you to the community because the school is the community, it is all intertwined, and the fact that so many people came out to experience this together speaks volumes for who we are as a community.”

Click here to view the photo slideshow.

Date Added: 6/21/2024