Memorial Tree Honors Society's Founders

Mrs. Helen Rockwell Montanye retired from teaching in 1968, and as a result, the Village School announced it would be closing. The idea to convert the schoolhouse into a museum and establish a historical society was first suggested by Town Justice and Historian Archie C. Montanye. He approached the Village Mayor and Trustees with the proposal, and they agreed to the idea.

Special guests who attended the dedication ceremony included Larry Rockwell, Linda F. Young, and Marion Jones. Larry, a former Esperance Mayor, cut the ribbon when the museum opened its doors to the public in 1970. Linda was the Society's original Secretary and served in that role for more than a decade. Marion served as Vice President when the first permanent officers were elected in 1969.