The Class of 1937 graduated during a formative period in the long history of Pennell Institute, the cornerstone of secondary education in Gray for generations. Founded through the generosity of Henry Pennell, the brick school building—constructed in 1888 using locally made brick from East Gray—served students for more than eight decades and educated nearly 1,000 graduates before its role evolved.
Members of the Class of 1937 witnessed firsthand the changing face of education in Gray. During their senior year, a new gymnasium was constructed, built with hand-mixed concrete and wheelbarrows rather than modern trucks. The school itself was modest by today’s standards, staffed by a small faculty and serving an enrollment of just 170 students town-wide. Transportation was limited to a single school bus for elementary pupils, while high school students arranged their own travel, even for athletic events.
Despite these limitations, the Class of 1937 shared a rich educational experience shaped by dedicated teachers, strong community ties, and a curriculum that emphasized both academics and civic responsibility. Many graduates went on to military service, public service, trades, and family life, reflecting the values of perseverance and commitment common to their generation.
Today, the original Pennell Institute building continues to serve the community. The story of the Class of 1937 stands as a reminder of Gray’s educational roots and the lasting legacy of a school that helped shape the town’s identity for more than a century.