Ron Napoli, Jr

As a former social studies teacher at Wilby High School, it fills me with pride to see today’s students, Aniah Ogman and Aneisa Scott, using tomorrow’s technology to tell yesterday’s stories.

They helped create Waterbury, Conn. 1901, an outstanding 21-minute documentary that brings our city’s industrial past to life through creativity, research, and innovation. The talented students behind this project demonstrate that history isn’t just something we read about, it’s something we can preserve, share, and experience in new and exciting ways. 

Watch Waterbury, Conn. 1901

Congratulations to the student filmmakers, their teacher Mike Drew, Tom Chute, Bob Burns, Joe Begnal, and everyone who helped to make this project possible. Thank you for reminding us of the rich history that shaped the Brass City and for inspiring the next generation to appreciate the community we call home. Every Waterburian should take a few minutes to watch this remarkable film. I couldn’t be prouder of our Wilby Wildcats.