Oldest Wooden School House in St. Augustine

School Features

The Oldest Wooden School House is the oldest wooden school located near the city gates of St. Augustine. It is one of the first educational institutions in the United States where boys and girls were taught together. The building is one of the city's main attractions, drawing the attention of many tourists.

History of the Oldest School in the USA

Originally, the Oldest Wooden School House was a simple residential building owned by Juan Genoply. The first documented reference to it dates back to 1716 and is found in tax records. It is likely that the school building was constructed much earlier, as Florida was a Spanish colony, and officials were often slow in recording such matters.

The school was constructed using cypress and red cedar wood. Instead of nails, wooden pegs were used to hold the logs together. The building lacked basic amenities such as running water, sewage, electricity, and even a kitchen. At the time, food was prepared in a separate structure to minimize the risk of fire.

The school's sole teacher and owner, Juan Genoply, educated the children. After he got married, the newlyweds lived on the second floor, while classes were held in a small room on the first floor.

Architectural Features and Significance

The architecture of the Oldest Wooden School House reflects the era in which it was built. It is a single-story building with a gabled roof, wooden windows, and shutters. Inside, the school has retained its original appearance with wooden desks, a blackboard, and a teacher’s desk.

Unlike modern educational institutions, this school served a small group of students, usually ten to fifteen at a time. Students learned subjects such as reading, writing, arithmetic, and religion. Education at that time was focused on the basics, and schools often served as community centers.

What Is the School Like Now?

Today, the old school in the USA operates as a museum. Its main exhibit is the building itself, which has stood for over 200 years. The interior decor is preserved in the style of the 18th century. Visitors can see replicas of school notebooks and books from that era. Guests are invited to explore three rooms: the classroom, the pantry, and the standalone kitchen. To fully immerse visitors in the atmosphere of the past, there are mannequins of students, a teacher, and a cook.

The courtyard features a beautiful garden and numerous modern sculptures. A major attraction is the old bell, preserved from earlier times, which was used as a school bell. Visitors are allowed to ring it. You can also relax and admire the old building from one of the cozy benches.

The museum grounds are adorned with many busts of famous South American educators, donated to the museum by the state. At the museum's exit, there is a small shop selling souvenirs.

Visiting the School: What You'll See

Visiting the Oldest Wooden School House is like stepping back in time. The exhibits inside provide insight into what education was like in colonial America. You can see original school supplies, books, and photographs that help bring the school’s history to life.

What to Expect During Your Visit:

• Historic Interior
  Experience the past by viewing preserved wooden desks and school supplies.
• Educational Exhibits
  Learn more about the teaching methods and school life of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
• Museum Displays
  See artifacts related to the history of St. Augustine and the development of the U.S. educational system.
• Garden
  Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the school’s garden, which also holds historical significance.

Interesting Facts

• Age and Durability
  Despite its age, the school remains in good condition thanks to the use of durable materials and quality construction.
• Teacher Salaries
  In those days, teachers often received payment in goods and essentials rather than money.
• Community Role
  Schools often served as centers for local communities, hosting various meetings and events.
• Private Lessons
  Many students traveled from nearby farms and villages to receive an education, which was a luxury for many families.

Nearby Attractions

After visiting the school museum, tourists can explore other attractions and landmarks located nearby.

• Pirate & Treasure Museum;
• Colonial Quarter;
• Potter's Wax Museum.

If you plan to stay in St. Augustine, American Butler can help you find accommodations that meet your requirements and preferences. Many hotels of various price ranges and quality are located near the school museum.