PIMENTO, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Days after a fire destroyed what was left of the old Pimento School in southern Vigo County, members of the community are coming together as they share memories of the building.
“We were the Peppers and we we were peppy,” Former student, Muriel Ryan, said.
Ryan is just one of many alumni who have been coming to where the school once stood, to pay their respects.
“This school has a lot of warm feelings in my heart and the heart for so many in the community. Its loss will be sad,” She added.
At around 3:30 Monday morning, first responders were dispatched to a fire at the old school building.
The building was a total loss and later torn down for safety reasons.
No injuries were reported, for the latest in this investigation click on the link below.
Former student, Sheri Foy remembers a close bond between students and teachers. She says a piece of the community is missing.
“When we lose this it feels like we’ve all kind of lost a part of our family. It’s a strange loss to feel like a brick and mortar building can cause this much heartache for people,” Foy said.
The school was built back in the early 1900s, serving as a high school and elementary school.
Many may recall a tube slide fire escape, field day celebrations, or working in the cafeteria.
However, Roy Williams Jr. says he’ll forever remember the friendships made between him and his classmates.
“It was really just a wonderful place to be. You enjoyed going to school, you didn’t dread going. Like I said earlier everybody was somebody,” Williams Jr. said, “It’s a bond that’s hard to find nowadays.”
The former school has been abandoned for years, although groups had hoped to restore and remodify the facility.
This link provided will give more insight into restoration efforts.
With an uncertain future, students hope the vacant lot can be preserved.
“I would love for it to be a park. A community park with pavilions. It’d be beautiful, the souls of those who used to run around would keep this place alive,” Michelle Correll, a former student, said.
An investigation into the fire is ongoing. If you have any information you’re asked to contact 800-382-4628.
