June 1945

The sun rises majestically over Lake Huron, casting a warm, golden glow that dances upon the water's surface, creating a breathtaking spectacle that captivates all who behold it. This radiant light spills over the charming streets of Rogers City, illuminating the quaint houses and storefronts that line the roads, inviting residents to step outside and embrace the new day. As the dawn breaks, there is a palpable sense of optimism in the air, especially as the world collectively holds its breath, anticipating the imminent end of World War II. The war, which has cast a long shadow over the lives of many, is finally showing signs of resolution, and this promise of peace invigorates the spirit of the community.

Rogers City, 1945

Around the breakfast tables, families gather, sharing not just meals but also conversations filled with hope and dreams for the future. Parents discuss plans for the summer, while children, filled with youthful exuberance, eagerly count down the days left in the school year. Their voices ring out joyfully as they walk to school, their laughter harmonizing with the natural symphony around them—birds chirping cheerfully in the trees and leaves rustling gently in the soft morning breeze. This idyllic scene embodies the essence of small-town life, where the simple pleasures of each day are cherished.

Rogers City Elementary School, 1945

At Rogers City High School, a significant milestone is about to take place as the school prepares to hold graduation ceremonies for the 71 proud members of the Class of 1945. The high school auditorium buzzes with excitement and anticipation, filled with friends, family, and faculty who have come together to celebrate this momentous occasion. Dr. Harry Kimber, the esteemed head of the social sciences department at Michigan State University, is invited to deliver the commencement address. His speech, titled "The Road Ahead," resonates deeply with the graduates, encouraging them to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie before them as they embark on their new journeys into adulthood.

Class of 1945

Following Dr. Kimber's inspiring words, Superintendent Howard Gilpin takes the stage to present diplomas to the students, each one a symbol of hard work, dedication, and resilience. Among these graduates is Louise Smolinski, the valedictorian for the Class of 1945, who stands proudly, embodying the hopes and aspirations of her peers. Her achievements serve as a testament to the bright future that awaits all of them as they step into a world that is beginning to heal from the scars of war.

Class of 1945 Reunion

Meanwhile, the family of Ferris Parsons, a distinguished alumnus of Rogers City High School from the Class of 1935, receives news of his remarkable artistic achievements during his service in the war. Parsons, who had pursued his passion for art at the Los Angeles Art Center, found himself in California working as a laboratory technician for the Technicolor Motion Picture Corporation. His talent soon caught the attention of the renowned Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, where he served as an assistant animation camera operator.

Ferris Parsons

However, in February 1942, Ferris was drafted into the military, and his artistic journey took a new direction. His first assignment was as a cartoonist for the base paper, where he used his creative skills to uplift the spirits of his fellow soldiers. In the spring of 1943, he was transferred to the A-2 Section of the Second Air Force's Headquarters in Spokane, Washington. There, he attended a specialized photographic school and was given the important task of designing security, advisory, and propaganda posters, which played a crucial role in boosting morale and disseminating vital information.

Ferris Parson Propaganda Poster

In June 1944, Ferris's artistic talents took him across the ocean to London, where he was responsible for setting up an art shop that catered to the needs of the military headquarters. His work included lettering, layout design, and creating striking poster art. His creative contributions extended beyond mere posters; he illustrated flak jackets, adorned the noses of B-17 bombers with artistic flair, and transformed the walls of the base's lounge and mess hall into vibrant displays of art. One of his most notable creations was a poignant oil painting of Jesus Christ, commissioned for the base chapel in England—a piece that would provide comfort and solace to many during turbulent times.

Ferris Parsons painting Jesus Christ

Twelve days after returning from his service in England, Ferris Parsons married Maxine Flannery, a dedicated home economics teacher in Rogers City, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life. In the years that followed, Ferris would become a vital figure in the community, playing a key role in documenting the visual history of Rogers City through his art. His works would capture the essence of the town, preserving its memories and stories for future generations to appreciate and cherish. Through his artistic endeavors, Ferris Parsons not only contributed to the cultural fabric of Rogers City but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who called it home.