This blog entry is part of an ongoing project called “One Room Schoolhouses in CT”). If you’re interested in the history of one room schoolhouses in CT I suggest you purchase CONNECTICUT SCHOOLHOUSES THROUGH TIME by Melinda K. Elliott. This book was has been a very helpful resource for me as I did my research. At time of writing this book was available on AMAZON.
West St. Schoolhouse
1432 West St.
Southington CT 06489
This is a very beautiful one room schoolhouse that is in reasonably good condition. The West St. schoolhouse was rebuilt in 1762 after a fire burned down the original schoolhouse. It was home to students until 1945 when it ceased operation. Thanks to the Southington Historical Society this schoolhouse continues to be maintained and sits on its original parcel of land.
The attached shed you see on the left side of one of the images was their storage shed. Of course all these schoolhouses, back in the day, depended on wood for heat. To the rear is an outhouse about 30 yards behind the school itself. They were often called “privy’s” at that time. Although not certain I believe the two doors offer the user a child toilet one side and an adult toilet on the other.
This building is currently maintained by the Southington historical Society. If you wish to donate your time or money to this cause you may contact the historical society at: 860-621-4811
All images were taken with a Sony A7RV, 61MP mirrorless camera and a Sony 10-18 E OSS lens.
Images were photographed in Aperture Priority with various camera settings.
I went to that school until it closed. One outbuilding was the boys room and the one on the backside was the girls room. I was born I 1934
Hi Ms. Casner,
It is so nice to hear from someone who attended these one room schools. Your comment is so very welcomed and appreciated.
Come back again anytime. Would always enjoy hearing from you. I wish you the best.
Jay