This 4" x 6" color photograph shows a memorial stone in a cemetery. The stone is carved decoratively and has a plaque on the front which reads "Erected by the school children of Omaha as a tribute to the heroism and fidelity of Melvin Lawrence Robbins and Charles William Robbins, who, at the risk of their lives, carried their invalid mother, Mrs. Floral A. Robbins, to safety through flames and smoke of their burning home, February 21, 1928. Melvin, aged 9, died of injuries. Charles, aged 11, recovered, but died December 23, 1928, from injuries received in an automobile accident. This memorial is the testimonial of the pupils of the fifty-seven grade schools of Omaha, and was built with their pennies. Dedicated May 30, 1929.
Omaha Public School Archive Collection / Educational Research Library
Local Accession/Call Number
Archive Files: Robbins School File
Historical Notes
South Franklin School's name was changed to Robbins School to commemorate Charles and Melvin Robbins. The school the boys attended was re-named in their honor. On the morning of February 21, 1928, the Robbins's home caught fire. The two boys carried their bed-ridden mother to safety through a bedroom window. Both boys suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation. Nine-year-old Melvin died of his injuries the next day. Eleven year-old Charles recovered only to lose his life later that year when the coaster wagon he and a friend were riding in was hit by a car as they were crossing 42nd Street. This stone was paid for and erected by the school children of Omaha.
