It was found in 2019 by a custodian making repairs at North Canton Middle School. It was discovered that the purse covered in dust belonged to Patti Rumfola, a former student who lost it in 1957.
Rumfola died in 2013, but the purse's contents gave her family a glimpse into what her life was like as a teenager at then Hoover High School.
It contained several black and white photos, makeup items, a comb, school supplies and a football game schedule.
The purse also held membership cards and 26 cents which became special keepsakes for her children.
The school said each of Rumfola's five children kept a penny from their mom's purse.
According to Rumfola's obituary, she graduated from the school district in 1960 and went on to become a teacher.