Around Middletown in 80 Days: Day 9

First Day of School

Commodore Macdonough School

66 Spring Street

Today is a day filled with excitement, anticipation and a healthy dose of trepidation. Today is the first day of school in Middletown. This morning, students returning to Macdonough School in the North End, were welcomed by Principal Jon Romeo, the teachers and staff, as well as our intrepid traveler, Phileas Fogg. Phileas enjoyed the first SURFS assembly of the year and the Beach Boy tunes that welcomed him. After learning the school song and listening to a story, Phileas decided to learn more about the school itself.

Macdonough School was dedicated to the memory of Commodore Thomas Macdonough, a US Naval hero who was most famous for defeating the British navy during the War of 1812 in the Battle of Lake Champlain. For this heroism and leadership, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor.

Commodore Macdonough's connection to Middletown began early in his career, while he was stationed in the city to assist in overseeing the construction of gunboats. Macdonough returned to the city and made his home here after ending his naval career and is buried in Middletown. The Commodore Macdonough school was built in 1924 and dedicated in 1925.

Phileas wishes all the students and teachers in Middletown a great year.