Ramsey County History – Spring 2004: “Growing Up in St. Paul: Mechanic Arts—An Imposing ‘Melting Pot’ High School that Drew Minorities Together”

Growing Up in St. Paul: Mechanic Arts—An Imposing ‘Melting Pot’ High School that Drew Minorities Together
Author: Bernice Fischer

After seven years at St. Adalbert’s School, in classes of thirty consisting of all white Catholic children, the author entered Mechanic Arts High School with its four floors, many nationalities, and 1,400 students. It was considered a “melting pot.” The highlight of the week was assembly in the large auditorium, featuring guest lecturers or entertainers. Academics were at a high level, and comic books were confiscated.

Fisher was in the class of 1946. At the time, girls were often expected to get married and not have a career, but the women who were teachers at MAHS were real role models. Her favorite was May Kellerhals, a biology teacher who pushed her to take more science and math courses. Consequently Fischer decided not to be a secretary and to go to college instead. Fischer includes memories of her friends and experiences at MAHS.
PDF of Growing Up in St. Paul