Hillsboro Historical Society

Hillsboro, Oregon
USA

Please note: The following article is displayed here solely on the basis that it is historic preservation news pertaining to the Hillsboro community. The Hillsboro Historical Society's Board has chosen a neutral stance on both the J.B. Thomas demolition issue and regarding the formation of FOTOS. Certainly, it is possible that some preservation-minded residents might choose simultaneous membership in both HHS and FOTOS. However, this does not equate to any kind of official connection or endorsement. The two groups have differing purposes and goals and are not working together in any way.

Hillsboro School District 1J is proceeding with plans for a July 2009 demolition of the J. B. Thomas Middle School building, located at 645 NE Lincoln Street. This longtime landmark was built in 1928 as Hillsboro Union High School and housed Hilhi until the current Rood Bridge Road campus opened in 1969.

Many residents of the school district have expressed their dismay at the idea of losing this Art Deco style building which, through the decades, has touched the lives of so many citizens of the region. In response, residents have recently joined together as “Friends of the Old School” (FOTOS), a group working to convince the school district to consider alternative plans for the old Hilhi building.

FOTOS would like to see the front portion of the historic building saved, restored and reused. Perhaps as an additional artistic and educational community center and as an expanded performance venue for the cultural and arts scene gaining momentum in downtown Hillsboro. FOTOS contends that the structure is worthy of being saved due to positive attributes such as its large size, central location, acoustically fine auditorium, proximity to the MAX light rail line, aesthetic attractiveness and adaptability to many future uses.

More information may be obtained at www.fotos-hillsboro.org

This article is displayed here because it is historic preservation-related news for the Hillsboro community. FOTOS is not endorsed by or affiliated with the Hillsboro Historical Society.

Posted: 10 Nov 2008

Attention friends of the Hillsboro Historical Society and to all who hold an interest in local heritage. Kay Demlow, President of the Hillsboro Historical Society, is beginning to recruit volunteers for the HHS winter program, “Hillsboro Spirits” (performance date and venue yet to be announced).

Volunteers' help is needed in the areas of research, publicity and ticket sales for the event. Please contact Kay at kay.demlow@verizon.net or call her at (503) 640-6936.

Posted: 6 Nov 2008