As our nation celebrates America's 250th anniversary, Big Rapids Public Schools recently received an incredible piece of our own history.
Nearly 50 years ago, during the nation's Bicentennial celebration in 1976, fifth-grade students at Eastwood Elementary created quilt squares representing important moments and symbols in American history. Working together, the individual squares were sewn into quilts that were proudly displayed in the school.
One of those quilts has now found its way home.
Former Eastwood teacher Mr. Ron Wardie, who taught in Big Rapids from 1975 to 1986, recently returned the quilt to the district along with a heartfelt letter sharing its story. He explained that his original hope had been to present the quilt to those students when they graduated, but life had other plans. Fifty years later, he felt it was time for the quilt to return to the school community where it was created.
What began as a classroom project soon became a lasting piece of Eastwood Elementary history. During the 1975-76 school year, fifth-grade teachers Jim Wardie and Tom Mackowiak challenged their students to commemorate America's upcoming Bicentennial by creating quilt squares that reflected meaningful moments and symbols from our nation's history. Every student contributed a unique design, bringing their own ideas and artistic talents to the project. With the help of volunteers Adeline Buck and Jeannie Scheerens, each square was completed before fellow Eastwood teacher Alma Comer transformed the collection into two quilts. Displayed in the school's multi-purpose room, the quilts became a source of pride—not only because they celebrated the nation's history, but because they represented the creativity, teamwork, and school spirit of the students who made them.
To ensure this treasured piece of BRPS history can be enjoyed for generations to come, the quilt will be displayed in Heritage Hall at Big Rapids High School. Located in the school's Food Court, Heritage Hall showcases memorabilia and artifacts that celebrate our district's rich history. Its central location allows students, alumni, families, and community members to view the quilt while attending athletic events in the high school gymnasium, performances in the auditorium, or other school activities throughout the year.
Big Rapids Public Schools extends our sincere gratitude to Mr. Ron Wardie for his thoughtfulness, care, and remarkable preservation of this special piece of our district's history. For nearly 50 years, he safeguarded this quilt and the story behind it, ensuring it could one day return to the community where it was created. We are honored that he entrusted it to BRPS, allowing us to preserve, display, and share it with future generations. His gift is more than a quilt—it's a lasting reminder of the creativity, collaboration, and school pride that have connected Cardinals across the decades.
