Friends of Vale Schoolhouse

Friends of Vale Schoolhouse, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) charitable organization. FVS is dedicated to preservation and protection of our historic community schoolhouse, so that it will continue to serve the community as a meeting place and symbol of togetherness for future generations.  Fundraising activities, and the generous donations and contributions from our members and the general public support this mission.

History Highlights:
“a place to tie to” ‘Labor Day is Neighbor Day’

In the 1940s and 50s, the summer in Vale ended with a picnic at the Vale Community House. It became known as “Labor Day is Neighbor Day.” References to this tradition are scattered throughout our history. Here is one from Charles Dominy in 1946: “Labor Day was always a highlight. A great way to end the summer and it seemed everyone was there. Sack races, pie-eating contests, balloon toss, 3-legged sprints, tug of war and a baseball game with both kids and adults in the lower field. The food was endless-fried chicken, chili dogs, hamburgers, tons of potato salad and fresh garden tomatoes. Cornon-the-cob was a clear favorite. We all pitched in turning the crank for homemade ice cream—usually a choice of peach, strawberry or creamy vanilla.” What a wonderful memory and a unifying event for our Vale neighborhood. As we begin a new season of activities let’s keep this in mind and embrace our neighbors, including and encouraging them to take part in all the Vale Club has to offer.

Darlene Williamson
Chair of the Historical Preservation Committee