Going from graduation in the 1976 Bicentennial year to the 2026 Semiquincentennial year brought 125 classmates and guests together from the Freedom HS class of 1976 for their 50th reunion Aug. 31 at the Green Pond Country Club.

Attendees enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, a buffet, and dessert, along with dance music by DJ Bombay, as well as a large raffle and a class display of photographs and memorabilia.

For John Peabody it was the first reunion he attended. “It’s great seeing everybody and catching up on the last 50 years,” said Peabody.

William Meitzler flew in from Chicago to celebrate with his classmates from 50 years ago. “We all grew up and we all appreciate our memories,” he said.

A focal point was a memorial tree where the names and high school photos of eighty deceased classmates reminded living classmates that time is fleeting. Many classmates stood in front of it thinking about their friends. Doug Morgan said he knew many of them.

Morgan added, “I love it. It’s my first reunion and it’s a big one. I felt obligated to be here.”

As the evening wound down the raffle drawing was held with attendees winning baskets with various contents, books, artwork, lottery tickets and even a phonograph.

“We graduated in 1976, America’s Bicentennial year – a time filled with hope, optimism, and endless possibilities. It was an era of changing times, unforgettable music, bell-bottoms, blue jeans, muscle cars, eight-track tapes, and a sense that the whole world was waiting for us. Those shared experiences created a bond that has endured for fifty years.” (from the event program)