Tileston Elementary celebrating its make-over

The historic Tileston Elementary School in downtown Wilmington is one step closer to refurbishing its old school building. Now part of St. Mary Catholic School, the school has unveiled its new Upper Room.

School officials said it has come a long way since it was used to house students in the early 1900’s. Now it’s all buffed up, and ready to be used as a function and banquet room for students and family. Clifton Lively from St. Mary said, “This is kind of the crown jewel in the whole Tileston complex, and we’re trying to showcase it here.”

School officials said they used to have to chase pigeons out of the ceiling in the old room.

While enjoying lunch in the new Upper Room, former Tileston students took a look around at where they left their mark.

Ann Newbold Perkins attended Tileston with her five siblings back in the early 1900’s. Her family donated money to install new windows in some of the classrooms. Now, her family’s name will forever be a part of the school. “It’s interesting because I’m beginning to feel like I’m physically historic.”

The science classroom and the sixth grade classroom have plaques with the names of the donors.