Historical Downtown Sparta

If you were in downtown Sparta today, you may have seen the historically dressed characters and older model vehicles talking with Sparta students on the the fifth grade historical tour of Sparta. Mr. Larry Carter correlates the tour with Sparta businesses and residents to incorporate a true historical feel of our community. On the left is a picture of one group looking at the Lamoreaux Grave Site and learning the significance of the history behind the three brothers from Sparta that all perished in World War II. The 5th grade classes also learn about proper gravesite etiquette in the historical exploration of their community. This picture below is of Paul Badgerow, better known as Sharky, describing to the 5th graders the specific historical aspects of the building that currently holds the Reunion Street Cafe. Below is a picture of Norma Gene Chapman describing the Cheslek Funeral Home building history and the downtown mainstreet fire of the 1970's to a group of students.

With period specific music playing downtown, the students learned about their community and their heritage through the school led program but only with the help of area residents who took the time to help make Sparta truly "What A Neighborhood Should Be".

Special thanks to all the volunteers who took the time to help share their memories and knowledge about the history of our community.