Wolfeboro Historical Society Digital Archive Photograph Archive Schools One Room School Houses

The need for education was recognized early in the settlement of Wolfeboro. As travel was limited, a number of local districts were needed. In 1790, the Selectmen established 4 districts, which quickly expanded with the population. There were 8 districts in 1793, 11 in the 1820's and 18 in the late 1800's. Teaching began in people's homes, but soon most districts built one-room schools. The buildings were simple, and the teacher and pupils did most of the maintenance work. All ages were taught at the same time, and the ages could range from as young as 3 to as old as 21. The older students were expected to help the younger ones. As transportation and school centralization developed, these schools faded into history. Many were expanded into residences and are no longer recognizable. A few have been saved, either in their original form or fairly close, used as storage buildings.

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