Between athletic games, dances, and clubs, high school life just seems a little simpler. To celebrate Benjamin Bosse High School’s centennial, we asked graduates to share their favorite memories.
“We won in Evansville, then Jasper, then Indianapolis. It was kind of amazing, particularly that first year. It seemed like every organization in Southern Indiana gave us some kind of party or congratulatory feast. We loved every minute of it.”
Gene Whitehead, Class of 1945
Retired construction company owner Played guard on Bosse’s back-to-back state championship basketball teams, 1944-45
“Going in as a freshman, one thing I remember was not knowing anybody and how the seniors interacted with the freshmen. There was no bullying. Everybody got along. Our pep assemblies were like no other schools’. They were like something you see at the Grammy’s: music, dancing, all choreographed. Other kids wanted to come to our pep assemblies.”
Erick Trice, Class of 1986
Lineman, CenterPoint Energy
“Some of my favorite memories were being a part of the athletics program: cheering under the Friday Night Lights, early morning golf practices, and popping up from the catcher’s position to throw someone out. High school sports build and teach character, integrity, and sportsmanship; these are all attributes I carry with me today.”
Taylor Merriss, Class of 2009
Special Projects Coordinator, Evansville Police Department
“The school called everybody into the gymnasium to welcome the basketball team back from state. Sissy Meyer was going to sing ‘It’s Been a Long, Long Time,’ but I didn’t remember the name of the song, so when I introduced her, I said, ‘Sissy Meyer is going to sing ‘Kiss Me Once, Then Kiss Me Twice.’ And she did! She walked onstage, spun me around, and kissed me in front of everyone. I was so embarrassed.”
Paul Carnes, Class of 1946
Retired plastics salesman
“We always had a junior and senior talent day. My junior year – I can’t believe we did this – my bridge club wore short, flared black- and-white vests and, I think, papier-mâché hats. We were dancing skunks, if you can believe that! I guess we were trying to think of something different, and boy, did we!
Janice Holdren Tucker, Class of 1955
Retired teacher at Newburgh Elementary School
“My memories are very vivid. I enjoyed those days filled with ballgames, sock hops, school spirit, and great friendships that will stay with me forever. Bosse was a place where many kinds of students – middle class, well off, and some whose families were struggling to make it – we all came together and truly got along.”
Mike Duckworth, Class of 1974
Business Development Manager, Commonwealth Engineers Chairman, Vanderburgh County Republican Party
“What stands out most from those years is the unwavering support I received from my teachers and administrators after I had my baby at 17. Their belief in me during such a pivotal time taught me the profound impact of encouragement and the importance of lifting others up when they need it most.”
Stephanie Esters Terry, Class of 1994
Mayor, City of Evansville
