LHC Participates in Charter School Summer Camp

This week nine students participating in the Community Day Charter School summer camp are visiting the Lawrence History Center. They are using the LHC's records to study the life of Hiram Mills (chief engineer of the Essex Company in the second half of the 19th century and early 20th century) and the Experiment Station/Water Filtration System he established in Lawrence. Archivist Jennifer Williams gave them a brief overview of the Essex Company, and answered some of their questions about the water filtration system. The students were surprised to learn that Lawrence created the first water filtration system in the country in order to remove chemicals produced by the mills. In doing so the city created a model that would be used around the nation.

The students are looking at a biography of Hiram Mills, pictures of the experiment station and water filtration system, and journal articles written by Hiram Mills, to name only a few records. Their teacher, Charles Easley, and his aide took pictures of the materials that will be used in a presentation the students will display on the last day of the camp. The LHC is always very happy to collaborate with the schools and bring the history of the city alive for students of all ages. We look forward to continuing to work with the the Charter School this year and in years to come.