The Parma City Schools Historical Museum is currently showcasing a fascinating exhibit at the Cuyahoga County Library’s Parma Powers branch, running through July 31st. This display is a testament to the museum's mission to preserve and share the rich history of Parma City Schools. The exhibit features a series of posters, each representing a decade of the district's existence, dating back to the early 1900s. These posters offer a unique glimpse into the evolution of the school system and the broader historical context of each era. The museum's trustee, Jan Olsen, a Parma native and longtime teacher, is instrumental in this project. Olsen's passion for the district's history is evident as she describes the exhibit's creation. The library's initiative to host the display for a month was warmly welcomed by the museum, which has a collection of posters that illustrate the significant events and trends of each decade. The response from district alumni has been overwhelming, prompting the library to offer additional space for a corner display featuring old yearbooks and memorabilia. This expansion of the exhibit is a testament to the community's interest in the district's past. However, the museum's current space is limited, and the group is actively fundraising to construct a more substantial museum in front of Byers Field. The goal is to raise over $400,000 to create a one-room schoolhouse museum, a significant undertaking. The museum's current storage space, behind the Byers Field concession area, is not ideal for preserving valuable historical items due to climate control issues. Despite these challenges, the museum's efforts to preserve and share the history of Parma City Schools are commendable. The planned reunion of all Parma schools before an October football game at Byers Field is an exciting initiative that will further engage the community with the district's past. This project is a testament to the power of community engagement and the importance of preserving historical artifacts. The Parma City Schools Historical Museum's dedication to its mission is inspiring, and the exhibit at the Cuyahoga County Library is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Parma City Schools.
