ALTON BLACK ALUMNI REUNION / ALTON FRIENDS OF THE 60'S

The concept of the ALTON FRIENDS OF THE 60's all began back in the late ‘90’s - early 2000’s. It was during that timeframe that several local alumni talked about and debated the virtues of a black reunion experience. Finally, in 2003 a core group of friends decided to make that concept a reality. As a result, the Alton Friends of the 60's organization was formed and the inaugural reunion was planned and took place on Labor Day weekend, 2004. The event was a major success with more than 150 people from far and near in attendance. For many, it was the first return trip to Alton in 25-30 years. It proved to be a homecoming as well as a reunion. For most…it proved to be a time for reflection and reconnection to the events, people, and environment that helped shape and influence their formative years.

One of the highlights of that first reunion event in 2004 was a $500 donation to the ‘new’ Alton High School. A commemorative brick inscribed with “Alton Friends of the 60’s” became a part of the new facility.

The second biennial reunion took place on Labor Day weekend 2006. This event was even more successful than the initial reunion with more than 200 participants. For both the first and second biennial reunions, we were blessed to have some of our former teachers present. Special tributes were made to honor these educators who were instrumental in mentoring, shaping and nurturing our (then) young minds.

During the third biennial reunion (2008), the tradition of sharing love and memories with old friends continued with another outstanding Labor Day weekend event. By this time, the experience had really morphed into much, much more than a “redbird” reunion. It had become more like a homecoming for black folks who came through during a unique time in history (the late 50’s thru the mid 80’s).

The fourth biennial reunion (2010) was a rousing success. The decline in the economy did not stop classmates from traveling across the country. We started off on Friday night at the argosy. On Saturday, the banquet was fabulous, featuring the David Dee band (of “Goin’ Fishin’ fame). Sunday's activities included church services and a picnic all held at Gordon Moore park.

We are now making preparations for our fifth class reunion in 2012. Over time and 4 successful events, we see that the experience has really morphed into much, much more than a “redbird” reunion. It has become more like a homecoming for black folks who share common roots and home base. Thus, our name/moniker has evolved as well to Alton Black Alumni Reunion: Alton Friends of the 60’s.

Our vision/aspiration is to have a big turnout of former Alton High students coming home to reunite…reminisce…celebrate…and party! To that end, we have expanded our focus to include classes up to and including 1985. New members representing the 70’s and 80’s have joined our 2012 event planning committee.