AUBURN — Classmates of the Edward Little High School Class of 1936 celebrated their 75th year reunion at a luncheon held at Rolandeau’s Restaurant on Aug. 6. In recognizing the longevity span, it was reported that this was the first occasion that Chef/Owner Roland and his staff, in the history of Rolandeau’s, have had the opportunity to serve a group of high school classmates who were celebrating their 75th reunion.

Eight members of the class of 1936 attended: Helen Andrews Fehlau of Boothbay Harbor and Bradenton, Fla.; James Bouchles of Auburn and Naples, Fla.; Lionel Ferland Sr. and Emily Libby Croxford of Poland; Elizabeth Robinson Eveleth of Leeds and Glen Burnie, Md.; G. Carlton Snowe of Auburn and Sarasota, Fla.; and Russell Hammond and Ruth Sylvester Benjamin of Auburn. Guests were Candace Eveleth Booth of Hernando, Miss.; Barbara Snowe of Auburn and Saratosa, Fla.; Chuck and Gretchen Snowe Bly of Saratosa, Fla.; and Helen Hammond and George Benjamin of Auburn.

Since the first reunion of the Class of 1936 at the DeWitt Hotel in Lewiston on June 12, 1941, Jim Bouchles has served as Master of Ceremonies. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Carlie Snowe. Toasts were offered by Helen Andrews Fehlau, Sally Robinson Eveleth and Ruth Sylvester Benjamin to the class’ alma mater, to the classmates and to Milton Semer of Washington, D.C., who provided complimentary beverages for the occasion. Following self introductions by classmates and guests, the classmates recounted recollections of memorable high school experiences.

Sally Eveleth presented messages from classmates who were unable to attend: Marilynn Brown Ames, Regina LaRose Lawler and Viola McFadden McGilvery of Auburn; Milton Semer of Washington, D.C.; Louisa Talcott Grogan of Madison, Va.; and Florence Waterman Allin of Lancaster, N.H. An in memoriam observance of 145 classmates was conducted by Helen Fehlau and Ruth Benjamin. White carnations were added to the center floral arrangement in memory of the reported 10 departed members since the 73rd reunion in 2009.

The classmates voted to make a donation to the ELHS Alumni Scholarship. As to future meetings, it was decided that members of the committee will be contacted in two years to determine the feasibility of scheduling a 77th reunion in 2013 or to meet informally.

Among the memorabilia on display were photos of classmates in caps and gowns, serving as a reminder that the Class of 1936 was the first ELHS class to wear caps and gowns and the first to hold graduation in the Auburn Theater on Court Street.

A lovely original framed watercolor, painted and donated by Helen Fehlau, was won as a door prize by George Benjamin. Flower arrangements were won by Helen Fehlau and Emily Croxford.

Classmates serving on the ELHS Class of 1936 Reunion Committee are Marilynn Brown Ames, honorary chairperson; Ruth Sylvester Benjamin, chairperson; James Bouchles, master of ceremonies; Sally Robinson Eveleth, registration; Helen Andrews Fehlau, general assistant; and G. Carlton Snowe, greeter.