History and Vision
Details for The Morgantown School Project
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In 1891, Bennet Saunders deeded property to school authorities for the purpose of building a “colored” school in Morgantown. By 1956/7, support from teachers, parents, and the school board allowed for a second room to be built. The local African American students attended this schoolhouse from the school’s establishment in the 1890s until winter break in 1963, when similar small schools all over Northern Fauquier were closed. That January, Morgantown’s former students were transported to the new Northwestern Elementary School (now Claude Thompson Elementary School) in Rectortown. Despite this relocation to the new school, students remained segregated until 1969.
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Preserving historical sites, such as this school and the town’s church and cemeteries enrich appreciation and pride within the local African American community. This preservation allows Morgantown’s current residents and descendants to connect with and respect the area’s complex past. Sites such as the Morgantown School are more than tourist attractions; they tell a story. Not only do these sites offer an opportunity for reflection, but they serve as powerful tools for teaching a more comprehensive and engaging history. As we work towards restoration, we envision a future where the Morgantown School offers an interpretive space for adults and children both on-sight and online. Here, the often overlooked and even forgotten parts of American history could be taught. The school was built with the purpose of education, and we hope to continue that mission.
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Today, remnants of this small schoolhouse sit at its original location, 4706 Free State Road, Marshall VA. The remaining parts of the building, including three walls, the roof, support beams, concrete foundation, steps, and bell tower, show the classroom’s structure. Although parts of the original structure are intact, the building is at a high risk of collapse. The original metal roof, its wooden support beams and bell tower are heavily damaged. Additionally, the surrounding grounds are unsafe for foot or vehicle travel. Despite the current condition of the property, its historic character can be saved.
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While stabilizing the building is a top priority, we have exciting plans for future phases. To reach a broader audience, the site will eventually have digital accessibility, including photographs, school records, narration, and virtual reality. This addition will allow anyone to virtually experience a day in the classroom of a little one-room segregated school in rural Virginia. Though estimation for an end- product ranges from $100,000-130,000, strategic planning can fulfil our goal. Additionally, AAHA believes that, as in the past, daily travelers on the busy Free State Road will notice our preservation effort and offer support. We plan to place a historical marker at the site, emphasizing the historic significance and requesting passersby support our mission. The path towards our vision is long and strenuous, requiring passion and support. We are confident that this site can be preserved and continue reflecting history while fulfilling its original purpose of offering a space for education.
Donate Now!
Join Our Mission: Your support is the cornerstone of our ability to preserve and share the rich history of the Morgantown School. Every donation, big or small, fuels our restoration efforts, educational programs, and the safeguarding of invaluable artifacts.
By contributing, you become a vital part of our community's effort to honor the past, engage the present, and inspire future generations. Help us keep the legacy of the Morgantown School alive for years to come. Donate today and make a lasting impact!