By: centraljersey.com
MANVILLE – Three days of renewing friendships and reminiscing will the primary themes for the Manville High School Class of 1960’s 50th reunion, scheduled for Oct. 1 through Oct. 3.
The celebration begins at 5 p.m. Oct. 1, with members of the class getting an alumni tour of the high school. At 7 p.m. the class will be recognized and honored at the football game at Ned Panfile Stadium, and at 8 p.m., the day’s events culminate with socializing at Pizza ‘n Pasta.
The party will continue on Oct. 2, with an evening of dining, dancing and socializing reminiscing and simply "catching up" at the Somerville Elks, in Bridgewater, at 6 p.m. A Sunday brunch at Old Man Rafferty’s, on Route 206 in Hillsborough, at 11 a.m. concludes the weekend events.
Everyone is urged to bring pictures and memorabilia to share with former classmates.
Because the high school building had not been ready for occupancy, the 1956 fall semester found students participating in a specially designed community survey. Classes were held throughout the town in public buildings, churches, fire houses, and the roller rink. Hands-on study of the history of Manville, its businesses (at that time, the Johns-Manville plant being the primary industry), was conducted, researched and documented within specific study groups; eventually each student had been appropriately graded for participation. Facing challenges and adverse conditions upon entering their freshman year, the MHS Class of 1960 united and realized successful accomplishments from this experience. Because of this community survey, the Freedom Foundation, at Valley Forge, Pa., awarded MHS a gold medal for outstanding achievement to the betterment of understanding the democratic way of life.
This class also holds the unique distinction of being the first class to have graduated after completing all four years in their new high school.
For reservations for the Oct. 2 events, or for more information for the weekend, contact Sandy at 908-313-3978.

