Located on the north end of St. George Street, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse dates back to the early 1700s.
Even though it appeared on the tax roles in 1716, it is thought that it was built several years earlier.
The building is constructed of red cedar and cypress with handmade wooden pegs holding the timbers in place.
Today, you will see a huge chain tied to an anchor wrapped around this little schoolhouse. It was added in 1937 when a hurricane threatened St. Augustine. Looks like it worked!
There were no conveniences at all; no electricity, running water, bathroom or kitchen. A well, privy and kitchen were all out back. A sign of the times for our old, old buildings.
When the original owner of the house Juan Genoply married, the house became a school and an addition was built. The schoolmaster and his family lived upstairs.
The Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse became the first co-ed school beginning in 1788.
As you walk through the beautiful gardens you will find the kitchen, the privy, and the well. Be sure not to miss the large pecan tree. It is said to be 250 years old and still bearing nuts.
Sit a spell in the quiet, peaceful gardens; unless you happen to visit the same time as a school group, then is isnt quite so quiet or peaceful, but it is always fun.
Hours: 9:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday 9:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. Sunday Closed Christmas Day and half day Thanksgiving
Admission: Adults $3.00 Seniors (+55) - $2.50 Students (6 12) - $2.00 Children (5 and under) - Free Group discounts available
Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse 14 St. George Street St. Augustine FL 32084 (888) 653-7245