This morning at the Foot of Ten Emelentary School, I went to their annual Veteran's Day Celebration and let me tell you, it was moving.

When I was a kid, to the best of my knowledge, we started school the Tuesday after Labor Day and finished the Friday before Memorial Day!  And, we all looked forward to a 3 month vacation!&nbs

Location(s) The Chalk BoxAltoona, PA, 16601See map: Google MapsI walked the aisles of Barnes and Noble today and on the tables are stacks of books with labels that say “BACK TO SCHOOL”.

Location(s) Back to First GradeAltoona, PASee map: Google MapsBeing a great fan of a good story, I always enjoy the opportunity to share stories with kids. Well, I had that chance today.

This article was written by Suzanne Sickler Ohl, one of the first members of the Tyrone Area Historical Society.  It was originally published on January 19, 1991.             St. Matthew’s School has a long history in Tyrone.  Over six generations of Tyrone area people have received their elementary education in this “fine school on the hill.”  Started in 1869, the first site of the school was in the old Elliott Building on the south side of 10th Street, now known as the Citizens Fire Company building.  The school lacked any of the “modern conveniences” of the day except for a cold water tap in the kitchen.  In cold weather the students wore their heavy wraps to keep warm.