On
Wednesday, February 21, West Middle School eighth-grade social studies classes
went to the Detroit Historical Museum. The trip was well worth it.
The
students were divided into groups and given a tour of the museum by a very
knowledgeable docent (a member of the teaching staff below the professional rank).
The
docent took us through Detroit's history. This included Detroit as an important
Underground Railroad stop and the great Detroit fire and it's rebuilding. We
also learned about the valuable fur trade in the area, as well as the
importance of the Great Lakes for shipping, transportation, exploration and
freshwater.
The
docent told us that after Detroit burned, the city "rose from the
ashes" and became a great industrial center, manufacturing ships, cars,
stoves and so much more. The highlight of the tour was to walk the streets of
Detroit as they were around the turn of the 20th century.
The
field trip ended with a pizza lunch at Pizza Papalis in Taylor. All in all it
was a wonderful day. So much information was provided about our great city of
Detroit. Remember it is from learning about our past that we can appreciate the
present and look forward to the future. Lastly, a shout out to all the teachers
that helped make this trip happen.
Robert
J. West Middle School's staff is dedicated to providing a well-rounded
education to all our students.
Submitted by Sara Bochenek
