The Phoenix Rises
The Phoenix is a symbol long affiliated with our School. This legendary bird, which rose from the ashes of a fire and gave hope of rebirth, was first associated with The Manlius School after a 1902 fire destroyed the main academic building.
The School rebuilt, and emerged from this fire stronger and more determined than ever not to let circumstances deter its academic mission.
Over the years, the Phoenix came to symbolize other periods of change, from which the School reassessed itself, made necessary course adjustments, and regained strength.
The Phoenix was also a literal symbol on the Manlius/early MPH campus, with the 1950s construction of the Phoenix Tavern.
The Phoenix Tavern, a student snack bar and lounge, quickly became a memorable part of campus life. It provided a necessary respite from rigorous academic demands and gave students a place to call their own. With proprietor Charlie Parsons at the helm, many a laugh echoed in the walls of the Phoenix.
Since the construction of the original Phoenix Tavern, our School has continued to change and evolve, but one thing has remained the same…our commitment to education.
As the beloved General R.W. Barker commented in 1960:
“First and last, Manlius is an educational institution. Its mission is not to train soldiers, but to develop good and useful citizens.”
While our commitment to academia remains unchanged, our facilities continue to require attention and updating. To address that need, our board is in the midst of a capital campaign.
This capital campaign has provided MPH a rare opportunity to incorporate some of our School’s rich history into the current campus. MPH is pleased to announce that the plans for the next campus building project, "The Bradley McNeil ’93 Learning Commons," include a re-creation of the beloved Phoenix Tavern.
Yes, “THE PHOENIX IS RISING”… literally this time!
The sound of student laughter will once again ring through The Phoenix, as this incarnation serve as a snack bar/student lounge/campus shop. With plenty of space both inside and outside, The Phoenix will be a welcoming respite for a new generation of students.
To complete the look, MPH plans on adorning a wall in the new Phoenix with one of the murals that was painted inside the original Phoenix. Benches from Knox Hall will line the walls, along with some of the furniture from the old Phoenix. Look closely at the rendering and you will see the sign from the outside of the old Phoenix, lovingly preserved and waiting to hang once again in front of the Phoenix.
Recognizing that the buildings and grounds of the former Manlius campus have left a life-long impression on our Manlius alumni; it has long been our goal to incorporate as many physical tributes to that campus as possible.
The Phoenix Rises…
There are many ways you can help the Phoenix rise.
Be a part of the excitement.
Read more about how the Phoenix has risen throughout our School’s history
