The John Eliot K-8 School and its Family Council kicked off a year-long celebration for the 300th Anniversary of the historic public elementary and middle school in Boston’s North End. The event spanned the school grounds into the Prado and on to Charter Street where Boston Fire brought out Engine 8 for the kids to explore. The celebration included games, food, raffles, local officials and plenty of fun.
The 300th Anniversary also coincides with the dramatic expansion of the Eliot School into the former buildings owned by the North Bennet Street School. “I think the Eliot School is the best school in Boston,” said the North End’s State Rep. Aaron Michlewitz. City Councilor Sal LaMattina also presented a commendation from the Boston City Council.
During the ceremonial part, Eliot School Principal Traci Walker Griffith recognized Celia Plagenza, alumnus of the Eliot School from the 1950s. Celia now lives in East Boston, but her father remains in the North End. Her father was the “chicken man” in the old days, killing the birds for the local markets.
Tables were set up in the Prado – Paul Revere Mall by several neighborhood groups including the Friends of the North End Library, Friends of Christopher Columbus Park, North End Waterfront Health, Big Sister Association, North Bennet Street School, New England Aquarium and NEMPAC.
Helping organize the event, Eliot parent Joy McDonald said the kick-off will be followed by several other recognition events throughout the year. Hosting the ceremonies was Eliot parent, Julie McHugh.
A fundraising dinner for the Eliot School Family Council is scheduled for November 13, 2012 at Vinoteca di Monica on Richmond Street. The cost is $200 including dinner. Contact gmonicas@aol.com to reserve a spot.
Photos by Matt Conti, unless otherwise noted. Download and order prints here.


















Photos by Matt Conti, unless otherwise noted. Download and order prints here.