On Friday, October 17, 2025, the Oshkosh community gathered at the newly-constructed Vel Phillips Middle School track and field - the same site where Merrill School operated from 1901 to 2024 - to celebrate the former school’s history and lasting impact through the dedication of the Merrill Memorial Corner.

Full photo gallery of the ceremony is available HERE.

Oshkosh Area School District Superintendent Dr. Bryan Davis began the Merrill Memorial Corner Public Dedication Ceremony by providing opening remarks and welcoming everyone to the community’s newest outdoor space. The ceremony’s color guard, composed of three U.S. military veterans and Merrill School alumni - Duane Canon, Greg Postl, and Jim Woodland - presented the flag as the Vel Phillips Middle School 7th and 8th-Grade Choir, under the direction of Dr. Phong Nguyen, performed “The Star-Spangled Banner”.

Following the presentation of the colors, Dr. Davis offered special acknowledgements to the district and community leaders who helped to make the Merrill Memorial Corner a reality. Also recognized were the local dignitaries in attendance as well as the ceremony’s honored guests - the family of the late Mr. Harold Schumerth.

Next to take the podium was the Mayor of Oshkosh, Mr. Matt Mugerauer, who shared a city proclamation declaring October 17, 2025 officially as, “Merrill School Legacy Day” in the city of Oshkosh. Within the proclamation, Mayor Mugerauer encouraged residents to celebrate the school’s memory and lasting impact on the community.

The next featured speaker was Mr. Jake Koellermeier, Assistant Principal of Vel Phillips Middle School. Within his remarks, Mr. Koellermeier celebrated the completion of the Merrill Memorial Corner and Vel Phillips track and field - a site that seamlessly connects the Merrill legacy to the current and future students of Vel Phillips Middle School.

“This new memorial corner is incredibly important to us. We view the Merrill legacy as part of the DNA of Vel Phillips. It's not just a reminder of where we came from; it's an active resource that represents decades of hard work, commitment, and community service,” said Koellermeier. “We are also proud to see this ceremony taking place on our new Vel Phillips track and field. This facility, made possible by the community’s support, is where our students are now building their own legacies - learning teamwork, pushing their limits, and achieving their goals. We are proud to stand here today, bridging that past legacy with our future.”

Following Mr. Kollermeier’s speech, Dr. Davis delivered the ceremony’s keynote address, honoring the legacies of the three influential figures memorialized in the monuments of the Merrill Memorial Corner - James J. Merrill, Henry Auler, and Harold Schumerth.

“For decades, the name Merrill represented more than just a building. It stood for learning, growth, and community. It was where character was built, friendships were formed, and futures began. That spirit - that legacy of learning and belonging - is not gone, it continues in this new school community,” said Dr. Davis. “The Merrill Memorial Corner is our promise to that legacy. By thoughtfully incorporating reclaimed stone and brick, we have ensured that a piece of the original structure remains, a tangible connection to the past. More than just a marker, this corner stands as a permanent testament to the school's enduring history, celebrating the influential figures whose dedication shaped its legacy.”

Within his speech, Dr. Davis also remembered two students who passed away during their time at Merrill. Dr. Davis informed that the memorial plaque for Christine Fredrick, a former 7th-grade student, was moved near the memorial area, and a new tree was planted in memory of Denise Williams, who also passed away in 7th grade.

To conclude the dedication ceremony, OASD Board of Education President Beth Wyman shared words of reflection and appreciation with the audience.

“It is because of your support that we can stand here today. Your commitment allowed us to not only address the critical facility needs of our students, but also to intentionally set aside space, resources, and materials to construct this lasting tribute,” Board President Wyman acknowledged. “The Merrill Memorial Corner is our promise back to you: that while the structures change, the foundation - the commitment to excellence embodied by James Merrill, Henry Auler, and Harold Schumerth - will remain forever rooted here. Thank you for your partnership. And thank you for continuing to invest in the students and future of Oshkosh.”

Directly after the public dedication ceremony, district and city officials, and honored guests, moved to the Merrill Memorial Corner for the ribbon cutting ceremony. The honor of cutting the ribbon and officially opening the Merrill Memorial Corner was bestowed upon Mr. Mike Schumerth - son of Harold Schumerth. Following the brief ribbon cutting ceremony, all other attendees were invited to walk through the Merrill Memorial Corner and enjoy the space.

Meet the Merrill Memorial Corner Honorees

James H. Merrill (1846-1900)

The Merrill School's namesake, whose life was defined by heroism and public service.

James Merrill began his public life during the Civil War. In June 1863, at the young age of seventeen, he joined the United States Navy - demonstrating immense courage through his service. After suffering a serious injury in battle, he recovered and later re-volunteered with the Wisconsin 47th Infantry Regiment, serving until the war’s end.

Merrill’s commitment to service continued when he settled in Oshkosh in 1875. He was not only a dedicated citizen but a foundational figure in the civic life of Oshkosh during the late 19th century. Merrill served in a number of notable positions, including Justice of the Peace, Municipal Judge, Circuit Court Commissioner, and Superintendent of Schools. In 1899, his dedication culminated in his election as Mayor of the City of Oshkosh.

Though his term as mayor was tragically cut short when he died from a stroke one year later, the city’s response spoke volumes about his standing. Over 6,000 people attended his funeral, signifying the collective mourning of a truly prominent community figure. In honor of Merrill's extraordinary service to the city, the City Council unanimously voted to rename the new 10th Ward School to Merrill School.

 

Henry Auler (1884-1951)

A gifted local architect who gave Merrill School its structure and beauty. 

Auler was known as the premier 20th-Century Oshkosh architect, a native of the city who established his own firm in 1907. He was deeply involved in the civic structure of Oshkosh. Auler served as one of the organizers of the City Planning Commission and was a pivotal figure in the city's construction era.

Auler provided the distinguished Art Deco design for the Merrill building additions in 1932, which was celebrated for its unique and intricate details. The structure was built of Oshkosh brick with detailed cast stone accents - materials that were salvaged to create the Merrill Memorial Corner.

 

Harold Schumerth (1914-1988)

A beloved math teacher and legendary football coach. 

Coach Schumerth was a giant in the hallways and on the field, shaping countless young lives with his mentorship and unwavering belief in his students. He taught math for 40 years and coached for 29 years between 1943 and 1972. He led his teams to four state championships and was named Conference Coach of the Year seven times.

Schumerth served as Athletic Director of Oshkosh High School for 17 years, earning him the prestigious Midwest and Wisconsin Athletic Director of the Year awards in 1975 and 1976.
His legacy was honored in 1989 when the Oshkosh School Board unanimously voted to rename the Jackson Street athletic field as Schumerth Field - the very site where Vel Phillips Middle School stands today.

Thank you, Oshkosh

We appreciate all who were able to attend the dedication ceremony held on  October 17, and invite all members of the Oshkosh community to visit and utilize the Merrill Memorial Corner as a space of remembrance and enrichment.

 

Video Recap: Merrill Memorial Corner Dedication Ceremony | October 17, 2025