On the subject of Fall River high school yearbooks – specifically, acquiring them for the FRHS collection – I recently wrote: “Sometimes, one simply need ask.”
Very true … and then some.
The “ask” went out a few months ago to a friend of the FRHS who happens to be a proud – and active – Prevost alumnus.
His “answer” … definitely in the affirmative.
His search began.
It was rather a large cache – a haul, actually.
Thirteen volumes: Ten yearbooks published by the senior class of Msgr. Prevost High School – a.k.a. ”Prevost” – and, three, by the senior class at Jesus-Marie Academy – a.k.a. “JMA.”
As an added bonus: Seven canisters of 16 millimeter film dating from 1936 to 1949.
According to the typewritten labels, captured on film are various events of local interest, including: Prevost and JMA graduations; “Prevost Misc.” – wonder what that is – goings-on at Notre Dame Church; Fall River parades and picnics; and “baseball champs.”
The film appears to have survived in good condition, likely due to having been stored in steel film canisters, fitted into a heavy steel storage case, with fitted compartments; extremely fragile, film is prone to disintegration.
As soon as the funds permit – always a lack of funding, alas – the film will be transferred to a more stable medium, in order to ensure its preservation. Imperative, that.
Until then, a waiting game; eventually we can safely see what the flicks divulge.
Of course it is tempting to put them on a projector and enjoy the show.
Tempting – yes, very much so – but not prudent … the integrity of the film must be preserved until safely transferred. So, it is not possible.
Thus, we wait.
There was also a chenille “JM” in its original glassine sleeve included with the collection, likely dating to the 1950s; destined for a sweater or jacket, it was never applied and remains in pristine condition.
Of the assortment of yearbooks, five copies were already represented in the collection – they will be retained as duplicate, backup copies. Backup copies are essential, especially with material used for research purposes.
The remaining eight?
Well, we can strike those off the “want list.”
What years has the FRHS added to its ever-growing collection?
The score for Prevost: 1954; 1955; 1956; 1957; 1958; 1959; and 1963.
For Jesus-Marie: 1958.
The holdings of the Charlton Library of Fall River History at the FRHS are ever-growing, and include what I believe is the largest collection of Fall River high school yearbooks in the city – public and private – extant. A very important resource for research purposes.
Many very sincere thanks go out to the donor.
Much appreciated!
