7 october 1968 & board of education promotes esther stroy fund for her parents to attend Olympics

#OTD 7 October 1968 Washingtonians were donating to the Esther Stroy Fund. The Board of Education distributed a circular to all of the schools. Esther Stroy, 15 years old, was a member of the U.S. Women’s Olympic track team. She was competing in the 400 meters. The fund was developed to provide money for her parents to travel to Mexico City to see her compete. Unfortunately, her mother, Ms. Stroy (I couldn’t find her first name), was unable to attend. Her father, Mr. Dennis Stroy, was able to attend.

Taquiena Boston writes in her diary on 7 October about contributing to the Esther Stroy Fund:

“We didn’t see anyone because we were on the first bus. Gym & showers. I gave money for Esther Stroy. Mrs. McCordel was absent.”

In addition to the fund, the City Council recognized Esther Stroy and her Olympic bid on 17 September 1968. "

Your comments are welcome below. Did you, a family member or neighbor contribute to the Esther Stroy fund? Do you remember Esther Stroy? Were these types of funds common in 1968? Were you friends with Esther and her family? Did you live near them in northeast? Did you go to school with Esther at Spingarn or National Cathedral? Do you have photographs? You may comment privately here.

Photo source: Courtesy DC Public Library Special Collections, Evening Star Newspaper Collection. Silverman was the photographer. 25 April 1970. The photo of Dennis Stroy was taken in front of their new house at 5301 8th St, NW. Mr. Stroy is holding some of Esther Stroy’s trophies. Two of her sisters also excelled in track.

Board of Education minutes, 2 October 1968, Sumner School Museum & Archives. I thank Kimberly Springle, Executive Director, Sumner Museum & Archives, for assisting me with the Board of Education minutes. The board minutes are bound in books and are easily accessible in the researcher room.

I thank Taquiena Boston for sharing her 7 October 1968 entry.