Townsman, March 19, 2009


	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE # 33, The Wellesley Townsman, March 19, 2009 FROM THE WELLESLEY HIGH SCHOOL PRESERVATION COMMITTEE A Rationale for Keeping the 1938 Wellesley High School Building We have recently learned that in the opinion of the Massachusetts Historical Commission the 1938 Wellesley High School building designed by the Boston architectural firm Perry, Shaw and Hepburn meets the criteria of eligibility for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. The question of whether the 1938 building should be demolished is currently under review by the Massachusetts Historical Commission. A public hearing on the matter will be scheduled in the near future. Shortly after the 1938 Wellesley High School Building was completed, it was recognized as one of the best-designed high schools in the country. Its unique art deco features and superior construction have come to represent Wellesley as one of the country’s leaders in high school education. Over the past seventy years its quality and durability of workmanship have stood the test of time. It would be foolhardy to relegate this classic icon of Wellesley education to the dustbin of history. Instead, we should explore how it can continue to serve the people of Wellesley. At the start of the high school building project four years ago, the Facilities Advisory Committee, which was commissioned by the School Committee to explore various options, determined that the 1938 Wellesley High School building was fully capable of being properly repaired, maintained, and used for future education. Rather than demolishing this historic building, it is worth considering how it could be used to serve future needs of townspeople as a cost-effective and aesthetically desirable place to hold many activities. The auditorium, which has seen so many superior performances, could serve as a community playhouse. The upstairs gym can continue to accommodate townspeople in all manner of recreation and athletic programs. It could provide a comfortable and friendly meeting place for senior citizens, many of whom attended the school in their youth. Should additional educational space be required, this ready-made facility would be at the service of the town.


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