Posted 6/22/01
It was the third Saturday in June and former students of Willow Grove flocked to Harris once again for . . . the annual school reunion
By MaryHelen Swanson
There was a moment last Saturday when the sky was blue and filled with puffy white clouds, no rain was eminent and folks drove happily into Harris for an special event - without the threat of a daily storm.
It was the annual Willow Grove School reunion that brought many to town this day, filling the tables and chairs at the Harris Legion Hall for an afternoon of good food and fellowship.
Ever since the Willow Grove School building, which is now the Harris Legion Hall, was moved in 1953 from its site on Co. Rd. 59 northwest of town, former students, their families and friends have gathered for an all-school picnic.
As in years past, the serving table was brimming with Minnesota hot dishes, salads, homemade goodies and, of course, jello.
Liquid refreshments accompanied and everyone filled his or her plate with a colorful array of food.
Under the direction of Marion Kelsey, the event remains a highlight for the many men and women who went to school or taught at Willow Grove up until the early 1950s.
As things got underway Saturday, Kelsey introduced Chisago County Historical Society Director Sherry Stirling who thanked all for coming and praised Kelsey for the good job she does at getting people to the gathering.
Stirling informed everyone that the county is celebrating its Sesquicentennial (150th) anniversary this year. She also informed them that the North Chapter of the Chisago County Historical Society has erected a sign at the old school site.
Charles Johnson was the determined to be the oldest alumni at 94, and he said ìI should be by this time.î He went to Willow Grove from 1912-1920 and had the same teacher all the way through. Today he lives in Cambridge.
Coming in all the way from Florida were Lloyd and Maxine Johnson. Lloyd was a student and a teacher at Willow Grove.
Four of seven Ramberg siblings were on hand for the day, also. In some cases, there were several generations on hand for this yearly event.
Kelsey called each one an ìhonored guest,î grace was sung and the festivities commenced.