When it was built over 100 years ago, it was the largest dome in the country, second only to the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.  The Sixth-Grade, Red Team was awe inspired at the magnificence of Our Lady of Victory Basilica in Lackawanna.  They learned of the contributions of Msgr. Nelson Baker to our community in this landmark building – and house of worship, as well as his generous charity to care for orphans and delinquent boys, helping all those truly in need among us.  The children learned how their “Pennies for Patients at Roswell” fundraising drive was similar to Father’s Baker’s ideas, petitioning people from around the country to send in small change that would add up to make a monumental structure honoring our area.

          While touring the ambulatory, shrine, museum, grounds, vestibule, and altars, respectful students marveled at the detail in the ornate designs, felt the textures of the marble, brass and other fine materials meant to last forever, and admired the incredible workmanship of the skilled craftsmen  who were devoted to this labor of love.

          With notebooks and pencils in hand, students discovered and sketched many architectural patterns, structures, and components they spotted which they had just been learning about from Mrs. Penny Silverman, a teaching architect and artist from the Arts In Education (Institute) program.  Curious and determined students tried to find angels with six wings among the over 1000 angels said to be on display there.  The knowledgeable docents guided the students to observe the symbolism of ancient times and appreciate how much of it has carried over or transformed to new uses and remains in our modern culture today.

          These budding young architectural teams are finishing the planning and design stages of their own domed models.  They will be creating and putting on display their vision of an international, domed, multi-purpose structure for Buffalo’s waterfront.  This project is a culminating activity combining what they have learned through their research project about collaboration, the cultures of Europe, Africa, and the Middle-East, and ancient architectural styles.  Their finished models were celebrated and displayed in the DMS Library & Media Center for all to enjoy.

D.Cobb, Depew MS Teacher