Forgotten love notes reveal high school secrets from the 1800s

In a surprising discovery at the University of Southern Maine, a trove of hidden notes and mementos was uncovered within the Academy Building during its restoration. This building, constructed in 1806, originally served as a private college preparatory institution for affluent families with children aged 10 to 17. Over the years it has transformed into a part of the university, continuing to serve educational purposes. During a lengthy restoration effort to fix the grand portico, worker Hoagland stumbled upon a gap between the first and second floors and found remnants of the past, including love letters, sketches, and everyday items like train tickets and pay stubs. Among these personal artifacts, fragments of letters that offered insight into romantic pursuits were especially notable, with some beginning with affectionate phrases, while others focused on innocent connections like an invitation to swing after school. In addition to the romantic content, the notes also included academic writings, such as math equations and penmanship exercises, providing a snapshot of the educational practices of that era. Hoagland ensured that every discovered piece of parchment was saved and later passed to Hannah Barnes, the Department of Art chair, for further examination and preservation. This act underlines the importance of these artifacts, which highlight a time when communication was significantly different. The ongoing renovations, which were described by Hoagland as the most ambitious project he has worked on, were completed in spring 2024, bringing the Academy Building back to its historical prominence. The documents are now housed in the Department of Art, awaiting a more permanent residence to secure their legacy. As correspondence becomes increasingly digital, the significance of preserving these written treasures is underscored, highlighting the cultural shift away from handwritten communication in future generations.