Last week, third grade classes went on a city walking tour through the streets of Weiser geared up with their best walking shoes, jackets, backpacks, sack lunches, and a scavenger hunt in hand. Who doesn’t remember the excitement of a field trip day?
I had the pleasure of tagging along with Mrs. Kanaywer and Mrs. Mizar’s classes as they began their trek at the Old Red Store at 1016 East Main. The Old Red Store was built around 1884 and was a staple of the community, providing basic living supplies, fresh produce, and tools. Headed west on East Main, the second destination was the Church of Chimes, the first church of Weiser. Construction on this building was completed in 1885 where it was first located on the corner of E. Court Street and E. 10th Street. An interesting fact about this church is that in 1894, after a big fire on the east side of town destroyed much of the town, the church building was moved by a team of horses to its current location using logs underneath to roll it along while the horses pulled. Can you imagine?!
The next stop on the Weiser Walking Tour was the old Weiser Hospital at the corner of E. Commercial and 6th Street, which is now a private residence. Matthews Grain, built in 1897 was an interesting stop where the kids were able to stand on the old scale where they used to weigh grain. Moving on to the Train Depot after that, the classes had a fun time checking out the old caboose and roaming the rooms of the Train Depot.
The students were able to visit the Vendome and learn about the history of that location, the Star Theatre, Pythian Castle, Hotel Washington, and the American Legion Hall. Several old churches were also on the tour, along with the Galloway House, Broderson House, Fisher House, Leighton House, and the older school buildings.
By the end of the trip, teachers, parents, and students were exhausted from a full day of walking, learning, playing, and searching for items on their scavenger hunt. It was a memorable day for all.
