Johnstown benefactor and businesswoman Rose Knox is being celebrated this week as the Greater Johnstown School District welcomes author Rachel Greenfield for a discussion of her biography, Rose Knox: How One Woman Mixed Kitchen and Boardroom to Remold an American Business. The author talk is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, at 7 p.m. in the auditorium at Knox Middle School in Johnstown, NY—a fitting venue to honor a woman whose legacy remains deeply rooted in the community. Doors open at 6 p.m. The event is free, and all are welcome.
Ms. Greenfield’s book is available for pre-order at Mysteries on Main Bookstore in Johnstown. To learn more about the book, or order a copy online, please visit Ms. Greenfield’s website.
Rose Knox’s Connection to the Greater Johnstown School District
After her husband, Charles, died in 1908, Rose Knox took over management of the Knox Gelatine business and went on to become one of the nation’s most successful and influential businesswomen.
Rose Knox lived in the famed Knox Mansion on West Second Avenue in Johnstown, just two blocks from the present-day Knox Middle School and Knox Field, both of which occupy land she donated to the District. She also contributed financially to the construction of the campus, which was completed in 1930. The three-block campus was named in her honor, ensuring that her enduring contributions to the Johnstown community and the Greater Johnstown School District would be remembered for generations to come.
“We take tremendous pride in all four of our school campuses, but Knox Field holds a special place in the hearts of our District and community,” said Superintendent of Schools Alicia D. Koster. “One of the region’s most beautiful and iconic turf sports fields, it also serves as a gathering place for the community and the setting for many cherished traditions, including the annual school track meet and our commencement ceremony each June.
“As we continue to honor the legacy of Rose Knox, we remain deeply grateful for her lasting impact on our community. Nearly a century after Knox Middle School and Knox Field were established, Mrs. Knox’s commitment to Johnstown and her generosity continue to enrich the lives of residents across generations.”
GJSD teachers have found a way to incorporate Rose Knox into the curriculum this past month, as a way to help students learn more about the woman responsible for much of the District’s early development. Students have been doing incredible work behind the scenes to prepare for Wednesday’s author talk:
- Art Students (grades 5-12): Students have been crafting unique gelatin prints which will be on display for the event.
- “Fascinating Folks” Elective Class at Knox: Students have been researching Rose Knox’s legacy and creating detailed display posters to show off their learning.
- AgriQuest: AgriQuest Coordinators will be working with students this week to plant brand-new rose bushes behind Knox Middle School, as a tribute to Mrs. Rose Knox.
- JHS Art Students: Students have been working on a large painted canvas mural showing Knox Field surrounded by students and includes lyrics to the JHS Alma Mater on it that will be on display.
