For Their Nostalgic Weight, Simpson Elementary Tower Bricks Being Purchased
By Julie Perine on July 08, 2014 via Connect-Bridgeport.com
So far, 70 bricks - which for more than 100 years were part of the Simpson Elementary School “tower” - have been purchased by residents. Perhaps they will be used as paper weights, garden ornaments or mantle pieces, but their real value is sentimental in nature.
Terri Payez said she has already purchased a brick and plans to go back for more. She, like many others in the community, has her own connection to the elementary school.
"I've been a kindergarten aide, going on six years. When my son went there, I was a parent volunteer and involved in PTA," she said. "I've never seen a grade school where parents, grandparents and teachers are so involved and ready to help out ... We just have a great community."
Through 1 p.m. and between 6 and 8 p.m. today, members of Simpson Elementary PTA are at the Bridgeport United Methodist Church Joy Blake parking lot, just above Simpson Elementary School, selling the bricks. After the building affectionately known by many as the Simpson Elementary “Tower” was demolished the week before last, the PTA was inspired to make the bricks available for nostalgic purposes and financially support the school, as well.
Individuals can purchase a brick for $10 and additional bricks for $5 each, she said. The sale started with 300 bricks available.
"With the destruction of the tower at the end of the school year, we thought it would be a nice memento for those who have passed through those halls generation after generation. The school was built in 1909," Lunsford said. "The funds will be used to help supplement the budget in which we use to fund the different events that the PTA sponsors, such as the International Walk to School days in October and the History Alive program. Also, we hope to sponsor a canned food drive which will be held in November as a school-wide community service event with the donations going to the local pantry, Shepherd's Corner."
If bricks remain after this evening’s session, the sale will likely be held again next week, said Patti Cook of Simpson Elementary PTA. Connect-Bridgeport will share that information when it becomes available.
Questions can be directed to Lunsford at momatc.lunsford@gmail.com.
Editor's Note: Photo of brick sale courtesy of Patti Cook
