We love historic places, and we had the opportunity to visit a historic schoolhouse in Kennebunkport, Maine. The Town House School operated as a school beginning in 1900. Today's blog will explain about the school and give you a look into some of the things inside.
(Photo: Schoolhouse Credit: TW)
INSIDE - The entire structure has been refurbished, and bathrooms were installed in an attached side room. The schoolhouse can comfortably fit up to 75 people on chairs facing the back area. The back area has a raised floor and they also have a large television screen for presentations.
(Photo right: A class photo from the early 1900s in front of the school. Credit: Kennebunk Historical Society. Photo: Tom W.)
A couple of photos of classes of school children with their teachers from the 1900s adorn the walls, and there's also a wooden desk from the 1900s.
HISTORY OF THE SCHOOL: Local children in Grades 1 through 8 were educated at the Town House School from 1900 until 1951. This is an example of a typical one-room New England schoolhouse.
In 1955, it was acquired by the Kennebunkport Historical Society and used as its headquarters until 1999. Over the years it fell into disrepair and had to be closed. Thanks to the fundraising efforts of “Friends of the Town House School” and the building expertise of Gary Martin, the school has been totally restored. It re-opened in August 2019 and once again became a gathering place for the community.
(Photo: One of the antique desks. Unknown if this is a recreation of the desks from the early 1900s or a replica. Photo: Tom W.)
TWO SMALL BUILDINGS ON EITHER SIDE - To the right of the schoolhouse was a small building with a sign near the door that read "Clark Shipbuilding Office," and the other was a small jail. Next week's blog will highlight the history of the Clark Shipbuilding office."
HOW IT IS USED TODAY - It's now a place for historic and other lectures and gatherings. The Historical Society also rents it out for small to medium-sized private functions by the hour, day, weeknights or weekdays.
INFORMATION: It's managed by the Kennebunkport Historical Society and is located at 135 North Street, Kennebunkport, ME. Phone 207-967-2751. Website: https://kporths.com/the-town-house-school/
(Photo: Schoolhouse (left) and Clark Shipbuilding office building (right). Credit: R.G)
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