|
This small, unimposing building on east Silverbell Road packs a big history. It is one of the best examples of a
vernacular timber-framed Greek Revival schoolhouse in the area, and is the only
one left in Orion Township.
It was
actively used as a school for almost 100 years and over this time saw the
evolution of American educational theory and practice. In fact, even Blanche Sims taught here. It
has also been intimately connected to local Orion history—the Howarths,
Porritts, McVeans and other pioneer families that settled nearby and whose
children were the first to attend here.
Originally built in 1859, it was probably framed with timbers fashioned
from trees near the site, and the foundation stone no doubt pulled from the
nearby fields. It has remained in
remarkably good condition. In the
1930s, the Works Projects Administration (WPA) modernized the school by putting
in new double hung windows and building a small addition for indoor
toilets. Architecturally, the slight
changes in the 1930s are just as significant as the oldest part of the
building.
This
building is threatened with demolition when the property is sold. OHS is working with the State Historic Preservation Office, the Township
Parks and Recreation Department, and outside consultants to move it, repair/restore
it, and retain its State Register listing. This project
will be months in the making, and will most likely still need assistance from
volunteers. But what an exciting way to preserve our local history while offering a
future site for the local history curriculum of Lake Orion students!
—— Leslie Pielack |
