One Room Schoolhouse

Last week we pulled out the pioneer costumes, wrapped our lunches in wax paper, packed them in a basket, and stepped back in time. Madi's 4th grade class visited Waterford's one room schoolhouse for a field trip. The schoolhouse opened in 1866 by the local Quakers to help educate the African-American population. It was a functioning school for almost 100 years and is now used for historic re-enactments.

Each student in Madi's class assumed a new identity for the morning - a historical person who actually attended the school. Madi was Catherine, a 16 year old, who worked as a cook and caretaker of 4 young children.

With authentic slates and wax chalk, primary readers, and real quill and ink pens, the class was immersed in re-living history. The original floor boards creaked with our steps. The desks seats were worn smooth. The morning sunlight poured in from the tall windows.

Recess was held outside under the shade of oak trees. We played tug-of-war, jump rope, and a game with wooden hoops and sticks.

Back in time. Present time. A wonderful time spent with Madi.