In 1942, Freedom Area High School's yearbook staff changed the name of its publication from the "Swastika" to the "Shawnee." According to the 1942 staff, "the former name, 'Swastika,' although it was really an Indian name meaning 'Good luck,' was in past years adopted by a foreign government as its national emblem. This government, through its acts of unwarranted aggression, has placed the name "Swastika,' in great disrepute. Therefore, the senior class of 1942 has broken a long tradition and changed the name of the yearbook." The name Shawnee was selected for two reasons. Shawnee was the name of a powerful Native American tribe that lived near the present site of Freedom, and was the name of the first river boats built in this community. Now in its 84th year, the staff of the Shawnee is proud to continue to bring you, in full color, the first draft of the history of Freedom Area High School.