Published: October 08, 2008 04:40 pm      

County museum salutes now defunct high schools

The changing exhibit at the Hendricks County Museum features items from the high schools of Amo, Cartersburg, Clayton, Hazelwood, and Stilesville. These schools had a rich history in the county, but eventually closed due to school consolidations.

On display are games played on the school grounds, as well as art materials, musical instruments, yearbooks, and photos.

Also featured are two “kounty kegs” which were passed between the schools as the winner of a ballgame took home the keg. The original keg started with Pittsboro and was as important to the local schools as the Old Oaken Bucket is to Indiana and Purdue universities.

The first keg was between Amo, Stilesville, Clayton, Lizton, North Salem, Pittsboro, New Winchester, Brownsburg, and Avon. A second keg was added when Danville and Plainfield joined the group.

During a tournament, the keg could be passed between several schools.

Museum personnel are asking long-time residents to share their memories of these schools. A notebook will be made and kept for others to enjoy. Written memories may be sent to Hendricks County Museum, Box 226, Danville, IN 46122.

The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Saturday. Guided tours are available at other times if scheduled in advance by calling 718-6158.