Sunday, September 12, 2010

Plumtrees School, Bethel, Connecticut






In 1866, this sight was donated by Eliza Benedict for the school. Construction was completed in 1867. At this time, Bethel had 5 school districts, grades first through eigth were taught in a one room schoolhouse. The school teacher would arrive very early to gather wood and warm the school before the children arrive.

In 1881, the Cupola and Bell were added. And, that same year an addition was made due to the lack of space for the overcrowded children.

In 1939, The Plumtrees School Association was formed to assist in maintance and supplies; they held lawn parties as social events, too.

In 1957, the school closed for renovations, for 90 years the students used the out-house and hand water pump, but now electricity and indoor plumbing was added. A new entramce that faces Tayler Road was also added.

In 1970, the school closed its doors, and relocated learning to the new school at the Educational Park. The school is named Anna H. Rockwell, so named after the teacher that taught at this school for 43 years.

2006, The Plumtrees Onroom Schoolhouse was placed on Connecticuts Registry of Historical Places.