Fox Cities News

The Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) has announced plans to distribute keepsake bricks from the former Merrill Elementary and Middle School building. The bricks will be available to families and community members on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

The giveaway will occur at the OASD Maintenance Building at 1404 S Main Street. Community members can pick up the bricks by driving up to the location, specifically turning onto E 14th Avenue and exiting via Pioneer Drive. Two pickup slots are scheduled: Tuesday, May 6, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesday, May 7, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Only one brick per family will be distributed during these times, and if any bricks are left, an additional distribution date will be announced.

A total of 1,000 bricks have been gathered and cleaned from the historic part of the building. These bricks were saved during the demolition process, complementing others preserved for the Merrill Memorial Corner under construction at the former school site.

The Merrill Memorial Corner aims to pay tribute to three prominent figures associated with the school: James Merrill, the school’s namesake; architect Henry Auler, and former teacher and coach Harold Schumerth. The district is also ensuring the preservation of other memorials that were at the former site, including a plaque for Christine Fredrick and plans for a tribute to Denise Williams, both former students.

The memorial is on track to be completed in the fall, alongside the track and field facility at Vel Phillips Middle School, with a dedication ceremony planned for fall 2025.

The northside consolidation of several schools, including the transition to Vel Phillips Middle School and Menominee Elementary School, marked Phase 1 of the OASD's long-range facilities plan. After the recent approval of a $197.8 million referendum on April 1, Phase 2 will begin, encompassing additional consolidations and infrastructure improvements across the district.

Further details regarding the facilities plan are available at oshkosh.k12.wi.us/facilities/facilities-consolidation-plan.