WANTED: Community professionals to participate in Career Day

In a wonderful celebration of Manchester's storied history, Hallsville School today hosted a re-dedication of the building's clock tower. For the first time in about 23 years, the clock and bell atop the school are back in working order! The bell chimed 15 times -- in honor of former superintendent of schools Dr. Tom Brennan, two previous Hallsville principals, William Shea and James Davenport, and each of the six grade levels represented at the school -- before students counted down to the clock's hands being set to the correct time. The last time the clock worked was at Hallsville's 100th anniversary celebration in 1991.  

On hand for today's ceremony were two of Hallsville's former principals, William Shea and James Davenport. The school also recognized the memory of former superintendent of schools Dr. Thomas Brennan, who passed away this month and is credited with starting the project to refurbish the clock and tower. His wife and daughters attended the re-dedication and received commemorative photos of the clock. 

 

Prior to starting the clock ticking again, city historian Eric Kreuger offered a bit of history about the school and clock, showing up-close photos of the tower and internal workings to the students who can't climb up to the roof to see it for themselves. 

Video of the chimes and countdown can be viewed on the Manchester School District Facebook page.