HISTORY

Pierce Downer started out as a kindergarten through fourth grade school in 1952. The building has grown through several additions. In 1959 the school expanded to serve K through 6. A second addition was built in 1967. In 1985 the library doubled in size and acquired a unique, sunken storytelling area. Two classrooms were added and the kindergarten classroom and front office expanded in 1989. Finally, in 1993 an addition created four new classrooms, a larger computer lab and more space in the parking lot and asphalt playground.

Traditionally, Pierce Downer School was known throughout the community for its pumpkin festival which included the sale of pumpkins, refreshments and carnival rides.

The year 1992 was historic, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the school's opening and the 200th birthday of the founder of Downers Grove, Pierce Downer, as well as the sesquicentennial anniversary of the Village of Downers Grove.

During the summer of 1997, another new classroom was added to the school as well as some interior remodeling to provide additional space for resource, social work, speech and school psychologist services. A new roof and gym floor were added during the summer of 2001.

Pierce Downer

Pierce Downer's Home

Pierce Downer's Grave