School History Part 3: A New Era Begins (1925-1957)

Port Hope High School in 1937

St. John's School built in 1883

In 1925, construction began on a new brick high school at Portland Avenue and Third Street. The new building opened in April 1926, a move hastened by a scarlet fever outbreak. The school’s belltower, a relic from the old building, was saved and moved to Stafford Park, where it became a concession stand. The new school was dedicated in June 1926, with a time capsule placed in its cornerstone, filled with local treasures like newspapers and a Bible.

As Port Hope moved into the 20th century, the German Lutheran community played a significant role in education. Pastor Thomas Schoech started a German parochial school in the 1880s, and in 1917, Ernest Mossner took over as a teacher. Mossner faced initial resistance in the community due to World War I tensions.

As a German living in town and teaching the "enemy’s language," he wasn’t welcomed at first. However, he gained acceptance by bringing electricity to the town, wiring homes in his spare time. Mossner also introduced his students to new ideas by showing them films—despite initial resistance from the church, which viewed movies as a tool of the devil. His innovative approach left a lasting impact on Port Hope, as he literally brought light to the town.

Discover more about the history of school days in Port Hope and explore countless other fascinating stories by picking up a copy of "Portrait of a Village: Port Hope, Huron County, Michigan" at the Mercantile.