THE MICHIGAN ONE ROOM SCHOOLHOUSE ASSOCIATION

Kalkaska

Oliver

Oliver

Olson Corner

Building burned-down in 1912. Also known as Sigma School. MORSA

Kalkaska

Oliver

Oliver/ O'Neal #2

W/S

Community Center. Gone. Burned-down on Jan 17, 1970. Students moved back to Sigma building

Kalkaska

Oliver

Oliver/Sigma #1

Log

Kniss Rd/Olson Corner

Gone. Burned-down in 1912

Kalkaska

Garfield

Perrin

10

W

S/10, W Sharon Rd

Kalkaska

Rapid River

Ransome/ Barber

19

S/19

Kalkaska

Clearwater

Rapid City

Grade & High School. H.S. Art School for many years operating under the U of M plan F/S J/S. Grade school ground floor & High School upstairs

Kalkaska

Kalkaska

Rice Hill (1st)

5

S/5, Rice Hill Rd

Kalkaska

Rapid River

Rice Hill/Rugg 2nd

21

S/21

Kalkaska

Orange

Rowe #1

19

W

1874-1946

S/19

Annexed to South Boardman in 1957. Community Center East Boardman Methodist Church. MORSA

Kalkaska

Orange

Saunders #3

3

W

1881-1957

S/3, Pontius Rd

MORSA

Kalkaska

Garfield

Sharron

W

W Sharon Rd

Kalkaska

Oliver

Sigma

Olson Corner

See Oliver School

Kalkaska

Boardman

South Boardman

21

1906

S/21

Two-story

Kalkaska

Excelsior

Speers

2

-1911

Building moved to Manistee in 1968. In operation until 1911. Also known as Bates School. MORSA

Kalkaska

Excelsior

Speers/ Bates

1911

Moved to Manistee 1968

Kalkaska

Orange

Spencer #4

14

W

1882-1962

S/14

Annexed to Kalkaska. MORSA

Kalkaska

Kalkaska

Tyler #3

35

S/35, Tyler Rd

Kalkaska

Clearwater

Way

25

S/25, Bebb & Way Rds

Moved from Custer Township, Antrim County. Round, brick K-6 school built in 64-65. In 1987 moved to the Antrim Iron Company Farm operated by Mancelona Area Historical Society

Kalkaska

Springfield

Weaver

7

W

S/7, W Sharon Rd

Kalkaska

Rapid River

Westwood

1

W

S/1

Kalkaska

Rapid River

Westwood

1

W

S/1

Kent

Tyrone

#1f

31

Log

Fractional with Casanovia. Kent.migenweb/directory 1870/tyrone. Mary Brady

Kent

Bowne

#2

W

1870's-1904

Porch and small bell. Burned-down in 1904. From Godwin's Past. Mary Brady

Kent

Bowne

#4

Brick

1905-1962

Built from brick. No longer used. Grand River Valley RR. From Godwin's Past. Mary Brady

Kent

Byron

#4

11

W

1857-1892

NE corner of 76th St & Burlingame Ave

2nd room added in 1925. In operation in 1892. Torn-down in 1965. 1 teacher. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 609

Kent

Ada

#4f

23

1867

Cost $800 to build. 1 teacher

Kent

Ada

#5f

W

2 teachers. History of Kent County. c. 1881 p. 494

Kent

Ada

#6f Farrell

12

W

1854

2 Teachers. Built at a cost of $450. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 494

Kent

Grattan

(Talbot) St Patrick

1880-1958 - 1870-1953

Moved to Patterson & Broadway Ave. 2035 Buttrick

Residence

Kent

Cascade

1st School

Log

1840

Near Cook's Corners

Taught by Miss Matilda Hill. The log house built for that school was burned-down in a few years

Kent

Courtland

1st School

Log/Shandy

After 1838

It is a little doubtful who taught the first school. It is claimed for three: John Davis, John Austin and Emily Dean. Miss Dean Jeot a school or a time in a shanty. She was followed by Amanda Louis and Harriet Patrick. Memories. p. 201

Kent

Gaines

1st school

by 1842-

The pioneer school in the town of Gaines was taught by Miss Mary Darling, in a little building near where stands the Red School House This was in 1842.

Kent

Grattan

1st school

1847

Built near residence of Converse Close

Converse Close was first teacher. In 1867 a Union school house was built and cost $3,000Asa Slayton was the principal and he has not got rich by teaching.

Kent

Nelson

1st school

after 1855

Nelson village

There is a school house where his children can be taught Cedar Springs is partly in Nelson.Memorial p. 218

Kent

Tyrone

1st school

1852

First school was taught by Miss Susan Field. The next winter the school was kept by Miss Nettie Wetmore of Grand Rapids. Memorials p. 254

Kent

Vergennes

1st school

1839

1st school in the Flat River settlement of Vergennes was taught in 1839 by Miss Caroline Baird, in a log house by by the Robinson brothers. She was married in the schoolhouse. Memorial p. 212

Kent

Grattan

1st school, fractional

1

1846-

Corner of Section 1

Fractional with Oakfield. The school on the West corner of section 1 was in Oakfield. Wm Ashley was the first teacher in 1846. He is now a lawyer in GR. Memorial p. 208

Kent

Bowne

?

W

1859

Frame. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 588

Kent

Ada

Ada #13

10

W

1867

2 teachers. Expensive to build with a cost of $1,000. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 494

Kent

Caledonia

Alaska #3

10

W

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. 4 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Vergennes

Aldrich #12f

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Paris

Alexander Hamilton #5

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Alpine

Alpine #1

36

1860

4730 Baumhoff Ave NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321

Kent

Alpine

Alpine #3f

33

Log/B

1838

Original Schoolhouse placed to the W of Solomon Wright's house on the E 1/2 of the SW 1/4 of S/33

The school was to be 18 ft x 22 ft. A $6 library case was purchased and $4 for library books. The school had a winter term (3 months) and summer term (4 months) Men were paid 3X that of the women teachers. Students from outside Alpine paid $1.00 to attend. 150 Years of Alpine History p. 24

Kent

Bowne

Alto #4

W

Bancroft in Alto

Michigan State University Alto Grange #113 p. 84. Residence. Two-story. Mary Brady

Kent

Vergennes

Alton #1

11

Log/W

1839-

Is location of present Alton Pioneer Village Park near Lowell 2780 Lincoln Lake Ave, NE

Has a Michigan Historical Marker. In 1839 a log schoolhouse built in this location. It was the first in the township. Site of first log school in Alton. Alton Historical Church Museum. Mary Brady Area now a Kent County Park. Traveling Thru Time p. 232. Building may now be a residence

Kent

Grattan

Ashley #6f

2

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

GR Township

Atwater

W

3 Mile & Grand River Rds

This school has had additions and is now a large residence. GR Township: The History p. 86. Photo

Kent

Ada

Atwater #12f

29 or 23

W

S side of Bailey Rd. 1/2 way between Parnell & Cumberland Aves

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 561

Kent

Solon

Ayne

Original location: 17 Mile Rd, NE. Moved to off US-131 Cedar Springs

In 1971 became Cedar Springs Public Museum. MORSA. Mary Brady

Kent

Vergennes

Bailey #8

29

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Alpine

Ballards/Rouse #4f

3

W/B

1844

1 Mile N of Sparta. On N edge of S/3

Fractional with Sparta. The wooden-frame school commonly called Rouse. Later a brick schoolhouse was built that became known at the Ballards School. These schools were located on the N line of S/3. In 1885, 53 students were enrolled and $143 was spent on teacher wages. The schools are no longer standing. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 561

Kent

Caledonia

Barber/Caldonia #1

26

W

1839-1934/MB says 1848

96th & Whitney Move to High School Duncan Lake Rd, Caledonia, MI

Restored. Moved in 1994 behind the Township Fire Hall, Caledonia Historical Commission. Built in 1839, oldest in Township. Renovated as a museum. Closed in 1934. Moved to High School, Duncan Lake Rd. History of Caledonia by Barbara Gall. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Byron

Barney #7

32

Shanty-

1854-1947

Moved to 9352 Homrich Ave

Barney had 3 schools. Byron History. See photos. One of the Barney Schools was a small building. The second school house was erected in 1857. Later it formed part of Milton Winegar's residence. The 3rd schoolhouse was built in 1874. The building had two entrances, one for girls and one for boys. In the late 1890's the students raised money to buy some library books. These books went up in smoke when the school burned-down in 1920. In August of 1920 it was decided to build a 4th school and it had more than one classroom as it had a seperate room for the library. In 1947 the district voted to annex with Byrom Community Schools and now only K-3rd grade are taught in the schoolhouse. Byron History 146-153. Was there in 2003. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 609

Kent

Sparta

Bass #12f

1

1855

NW corner Indian Lakes & Long Lake Road.

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. May have joined with GR and became Kent #11 Dismantled.

Kent

Courtland

Becker #4f

25

W

1855

S/25

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Grand Rapids

Beckwith #11

Unknown

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. When the city of Grand Rapids annexed sections of GR Township & this Township consolidated to GR Public Schools in 1960. GR Township: The History p. 86

Kent

Alpine

Beech/Grove/Monroe #15f

32

W

Before 1900

NW corner of Fruit Ridge & 4 Mile Rd, SW 1/4, S/32

Fractional with Walker School. Known as Beech, Graves and Monroe. One-room school demolished. Replaced by modern two-room. Same name on Fruit Ridge Ave. 1 teacher. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 561

Kent

Plainfield

Belmont #6

22

W/B

by 1902-still 1955

Original school on corner of Rogue River Road and Belmont Ave. 1200 Post Dr. NE GR

By 1918 there were two teachers. In 1922 school moved to the old brick Plainfield Township Hall on Belmont Ave. In 1924 school moved to its present location at 6097 Belmont. For 23 years it was only two classrooms. But in 1947, 4 classrooms were added. In 1961 Belmont joined the Rockford district and the building changed from K-8 to K-6. Originally Students passing 8th grade could attend Rockford, Creston and Center. Plainfield Charter p. 116

Kent

Courtland

Benham #5

9

W

1860

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Vergennes

Bennett #7

32

SW corner of Vergennes St & Cumberland Ave.

Gone - demolished

Kent

Tyrone

Birch/Burch #6

11 & 13

1870, Mary Brady

Both W & E side of Red Pine Dr, 20 mile and 21 mile Rds

Western Michigan Genealogical Society. In 1894 was in S/11 on W side of Red Pine at 21 mile. Then in 1907 moved to the side of Red Pine at 20 mile. It is no longer standing. School first held in house of Mr. L. R. Burch. Mary Brady

Kent

Sparta

Block

Renovated. In 1979 leased to Sheriff's Dept. Mary Brady

Kent

Algoma

Block #11

W/B

In Village of Laphamville (now Rockford)

1st school in Algoma Township. Old frame building of years ago replaced by a fine 3 story brick, 60 ft x 63 ft at a cost of $20,000. Erected in 1870 at which time the school was graded and known as the Rockford Union School. Rockford has a school any town might be proud of. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 526

Kent

Algoma

Block #11

35

Just S of 11 mile Road between Wolverine and Elvenstine roads (atlas)

No longer standing. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Tyrone

Block #2

36

SE corner 17 mile Rd and Paine Ave.

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Paris

Bowen Station #3

29

Log/W

1894-after 1907

Originally on W side of Red Pine at 21 mile. Then in 1907 moved to the other side of Red Pine at 20 mile

Western Michigan Genealogical Society. In 1894 was in S/11 on W side of Red Pine at 21 mile. Then in 1907 moved to the side of Red Pine at 20 mile. It is no longer standing

Kent

Bowne

Bowne Center #1

22

Log/W

1849-mid 1960's

84th Ave, Alden & Nash Rd. Mary Brady

Original log school Museum open 1st Sunday of the month. Standard School. CSAA plaque 2010. Renovated into a museum for Bowne Township one-room schools. This Museum houses information on all Schools of Bowne Township. Mary Brady from Bowne Township Historical Society. Website and a Calendar of Godwin's part. Mary Brady

Kent

Alpine

Boyd #10f

8

W

1856

NE corner of Fruit Ridge & 8-Mile Rds, SW 1/4, S/8

The original Boyd school was a small frame building built in 1856 on the property of J. D. Perkins in S/8. In 1885, 44 students were attending the school and $150 was spent on teacher wages. The school is no longer standing. Fractional With Walker. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 561

Kent

Vergennes

Boyton #4f

W

1880-1958

391 Boyton, corner of McCabe & 4 Mile

Now converted to Residence.

Kent

Ada

Boyton/Honey Creek #4f

23

W

1852/1880-1960

391 Boynton Rd

1 teacher. Fractional with Vergennes and Lowell. Cost about $200 to build. History of Kent County c. 1881 says constructed in 1852 p. 494

Kent

Paris

Breton/Breton Downs #5 #11f

Before 1855 -

NE cor at 28th St. and Burton

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Solon

Briggs #5

4

W

Before 1900

Alcome Avenue and 21 Mile Road

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Springfield

Brondige/Day

No such township

See Day Schoolhouse.

Kent

Plainfield

Brownell #5f

3

W/B

Still 1924

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Alpine

Buck #6f

5

1864

Replaced an older structure on the Lyman Murray property

Fractional with Sparta School. It was a white frame school built in 1864 at a cost of $1,200. In 1885, 26 students attended Buck School. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 560

Kent

Algoma

Burchville/Burchtown #10f

1

W

1868-

North of 16 mile Road (atlas)

Fractional possible with Foxville. Named in honor of pioneer Jefferson Burch. Wooden-frame school, to replace shanty, is to be 30 ft x 36 ft. No longer standing. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 526

Kent

Grand Rapids

Burr Oak #14

Originally in Grand Rapids Township when the Township area was annexed to GR parts of the the school district became part of the Grand Rapids School System in 1960. GR Township: The History p. 86

Kent

Byron

Byron Center #8 (3 & 4th School)

W

1854-1947

Byron Twp Sch 84th & Homerick

White trim on red brick. In 1901 after Byron Center added the 9th and 10th grades students from the rural schools could transfer to Byron Center. After passing 10th grade they would receive their diploma. Then eventually 11th and 12 grades were added by 1921. Byron History p. 94. See photo of first graduating class. Mary Brady. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 609. This 3rd school only stood a few years as it burnt at Christmas time in 1917. So in the summer of 1918 another school of brick was built on the same site. In 1918 a 2nd story was added to the north part of the building. In 1927 on the south side of the school a Gymnasium was built for about $20,000. Byron History p. 96. Photo of 3rd school. In 1933 the kitchen and stage were built by the W.P.A. for $5,000. Byron History p. 97. In 1951 bonds were sold for additional classrooms and a workshop. The building was occupied after Christmas, in the winter of 1952. The new, $165,000 Byron Center, 12 room high school was dedicated June 13, 1952. In 1955 8 rooms were added for elementary students plus a gymnasium and a garage for bus storage. Byron History p. 97

Kent

Caledonia

Caledonia #7

W

2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Caledonia

Caledonia #8

29

W

2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Caledonia

Caledonia #9

W

4 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Caledonia

Campau Lake #2

2

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Cannon

Cannonsburg

Early by 1843?

A schoolhouse was locate there (Cannonsburg) In the village is a good Union schoolhouse. Memorials of the Gd River Valley p. 197 & p. 198

Kent

Cannon

Cannonsburg #2f

26

W

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. Mentioned but no information. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 681

Kent

Ada

Carl/ Little Red Schoolhouse #3

30

W

1859-1964

Originally at Carl Dr & Grand River Dr in ADA, Michigan

Originally named the Carl School at some point the 900 square foot wood school was painted red and renamed The Little Red Schoolhouse. Had 2 teachers. (History of Ken Co c. 1881 p. 494) In 1964 it was used as a flower shop. It was purchased in 2017, renovated and moved to River Street on the Thornapple River in Ada. See also Carl School entry. Books are available for purchase from Art tusch at atusch@sbcglobal.net. Also at the Country Store in Ada which is now the old school.

Kent

Tyrone

Casanova #8f

19 or 24*

W

NE corner Main St & Atherton, Casnovia.

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society This was called Casanova Old School. Converted to residence. Old School Projects.

Kent

Lowell

Cascade

Lowell District

Contact: Leah (Reynolds) Snyder, 2916 Lowell St., Kalamazoo

Kent

Cascade

Cascade #3 or #4

9

W

1870-1953 3rd bldg

8778 Cascade Road

1847-1870; second building moved to Patterson & Broadmoor, years of operation 1870-1953; building converted to residence that was painted white and furnished with black walnut Furniture.

Kent

Nelson

Cedar Springs 1st school

Shandy, W, W

1857

We cannot but commend the public spirit that has established her excellent graded school, and erected her noble schoolhouse Perhaps the best in the county outside of Grand Rapids. Memorial p. 220. Miss Clarinda Stillwell is accredited as being the first teacher summer of 1857. (List of 1st teacher p.221) The first schoolhouse was a shanty, the 2nd a good frame building for 60 scholars, the 3rd, which was opened Jan 1, 1873, a noble structure, worth $20,000. Cedar Springs believes in education. Memorial p. 221.

Kent

Nelson

Cedar Springs #5f

30

NOR

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Algoma

Chalmers #4

29

W

1854-after 1945

Corner of Pine Island Drive & Fonger Street, 10531 Algoma Ave, Rockford

The Chalmers School is the meeting place for the Algoma Township Historical Society.

Kent

Ada

Chase #3

10

1859

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society (Possibly #4 in 1867. Cost $800. S/23, Wood)

Kent

Solon

Christian Hill #4

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Tyrone

Chubbuck #3f

3

W

1861-

S side 21 Mile Rd & Callen Rd.

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. Built near residence of Mr. Chubb. Kent.migenweb/directory 1870/tyrone. Mary Brady

Kent

Grand Rapids

City of Grand Rapids

NOR

Kent

Tyrone

Clark #5

19

SW corner 19 miles Rd & Fruit Ridge Ave.

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society No longer standing. Old School Project

Kent

Courtland

Closed

Kent

GR Township

Collins

25

1869-

Now on Fulton St

Two-room Collins School opened near Forest Hill Rd. The wooden-frame school was completed with a school bell. It is still being used for education. It is now a computer center for Forest Hills Senior Citizens. GR Township History p. 36 (Photos p. 37 & 38)

Kent

Alpine

Colton #7f

13

W

1869

Located on the N side of 7 Mile Rd on the top of a hill E of Alpine Station

Fractional with Plainfield. Organized in 1869. Cost $950. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 561

Kent

Plainfield

Comstock Park #9f

36 or 32

1859

In 1859 of Plainfield was divided at the Grand Rapids Township Line. On 1859 District #7 was created. Another school was built and to be completed by December 1868 on a good stone wall and to have two outhouses. Each scholar to provide a cord of wood. Plainfield Charter p. 100 Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Byron

Cook

Log/W

1842-current

Orson Cook gave 1/2 acre of his farm for the building

After several years in this 1842 school building the roof gave way and the school was disbanded. The children walked to another school and when that school closed they went to Ross School. The parents decided that was too long and dangerous a walk so they tore-down the log school and replaced it with a wooden-frame school on the same site as the log school. Then in 1916, a 2nd room was added with a basement under that addition. 2 teachers taught at the two-room school that went from K-3rd grade. Byron History p. 134-138

Kent

Wyoming/Paris/Byron Township in 1848

Cook

W

1842-

1st school built with rough slab seats. After several years roof caved in and school disbanded. Children walked to another school and that school closed and then went to Ross school. Parents then decided to rebuild Cook as a wooden-frame school on the same site (old school torn-down) That school stood until 1892 when they built a 3rd Cook School at corner of Eastern Ave and 84th St. It was one room but in 1916 a 2nd room was added. There is a Cook School in Gaines Township that was razed in 1960. Godwin's Past. Mary Brady

Kent

Gaines

Cook #4f

1

4011 100th

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Cascade

Cook #5

28

Log

1857-1867

4909 Thornapple Driver Dr. (second building)

Gone - burned 1867 - First building located in Section 33, 1860-1867, building burned; second building converted to residence; MORSA

Kent

Grattan

Cooley #3

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Alpine

Coon/Koon #2f

13

W

1885-after 1929

South of 8 mile Road and east of Alpine

The original fractional school was a old wooden-frame structure named after Steven Coons. In 1885 there were 33 students enrolled and teacher wages were $125. In 1927 the old school burned and was rebuilt in 1929. No longer standing. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 561

Kent

Alpine

Cordes School #11

26

W

1855-until 1960's

Originally NW Cordes Ave and Alpine Church Road in Comstock Park, N of Grand Rapids

Organized in 1855; School board members: Wm. Cordes (1869); William Cordes (1872 & 1879); Nicholas Thiessen (1885); Joseph Platte (1895); Walter Vinton (1905) The school is now gone (2024) but stood next to the Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery where the tombstones remain. After Cordes closed it had annexed with Kenowa Hills and the children attended there. No longer standing. Information from Gordon Timmins, Hollywood, California who attended Cordes School. 1 teacher. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 561

Kent

Byron

Corinth #6f

25 & 36

W

1867

Division North of 100th Street

Corinth was known in 1867 as Cody's Mills name after Mr. Copdy who had his mills there. The parents wanted a new school district in there area which is how #6f came about in 1867. It covered the east half of section 25 and 36 plus most of S/30 and S/31 of the Township of Gaines. Built as a wooden-frame school it was 26 ft x 36 ft and 12 ft high. In the spring of 1926 the schoolhouse was sold and moved to a farm. In the summer of 1926 a new school was built. It had one classroom and a library room. Also it had a full basement which was made into a recreation room. During the school year 1944-45 the students were sent to Caledonia on account of a shortage of teachers. It was closed and then annexed to Byron Township Schools. Byron History p 137-142. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 609

Kent

Courtland

Courtland Center #3

22

1868

1/2 mile T of Twp center S/22

Michigan State University Vimy;smf Vrnyrt Hts Hr #563 p. 861881 - painted white - See Gallery for Photo - Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Walker

Cummings #14

30

Annexed to Granville, Ottawa county - Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Bowne

Curley #3

20

W

SE corner Morse Lake & 84th St

Information on this school and teachers found at the Bowne Center Museum. Curley school tho is gone - Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

GR Township

D. W. Richardson

Oakview, Atwater and D. W. Richardson formed the Northview School District. GR Township: History p. 86

Kent

Caledonia

Daniel #6

W

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Gaines

Detray #5

25

1887-1937

9555 Kalamazoo Avenue, SE Grand Rapids.

Closed in 1937-38 Was given to Gaines Township Historical Society by owner/farmer Gerald Kayser. Annual events. Contact Township office for dates and times of Historical Society events. In 1924, 13 students attended Detray school and 10 were cousins. Graduating students probably attended Caledonia High School. Internet Hands on museum. Mary Brady

Kent

Spencer

Dixon/Dickson #5f

2

NE corner Sprague St & Sorenson. School was moved

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society School moved to SW corner Standing Red & Black Rds E of Trufant. Still Standing. Mary Brady says museum was donated to the Cannon Historical Society

Kent

Cannon

Dockeray/Cannon #5

5

W

1930's

Blakely Rd near Nine Mile Rd

Museum donated to Cannon Historical Society in 1978. Grand Rapids Press, October 10, 1993; built late 1800's. Closed in the 1930's and building donated to Cannon Historical Society in 1978. Mentioned, but no information. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 681

Kent

Gaines

Dodge #3

21

Corner of Kalamazoo & 84th St

Contact - Esther Middlewood, Gaines Township Historical Society; residence

Kent

Gaines

Dutton #1f

2

late 1800's MB

68th St.

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. Scheduled for demolition Aug 9, 2014. Peninsula MI. One-room school images. Mary Brady

Kent

Grand Rapids

East Grand Rapids #3f

L/B

circa 1834

Near Reeds Lake. later at Wealthy and Greenwood

The very first school in the Township was started by the Reed family. GR & Kent County p. 403. This school was on the 2nd floor of a log building. Most of the schools in and around GR were log, about 18 ft x 24 ft. The children used quill pens. E Grand Rapids later built a new brick school on the NW corner of Wealthy near Greenwood. This two-storied school went on to become the first E Grand Rapids H.S. and today houses condominiums. GR Township history p. 50

Kent

Paris

East K-12 Reeds Lake

B

1917

Waverly east of Laurel

Erected 3 story building which in 1982 still stood. The full 12 grades were being taught by 23 teachers and the school year was 10 months. There were just 7 students in the first East HS graduating class of 1925.

Kent

Nelson

East Nelson #3f

23

2T

Fractional; two-room school; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Paris

East Paris #8

13

3065 E. Paris Ave. Kentwood

Business - Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. Now Kentwood Christian Church. Mary Brady

Kent

Algoma

Edgerton #2f

24

W

1850

Northland drive (east side of Twp line), just east of Edgerton village (atlas)

Fractional with students from Courtland Township. In 1866 a larger frame building was erected 1/2 mile east of Edgerton Station, at a cost of $500. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Ada

Egypt Valley #8f

5

W

1856

Michigan State University. Fractional. Cost to build was $800. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 494

Kent

Vergennes

Elmdale

66th St at corner of Pratt Lake Rd

5 miles from Elmdale with a few houses and RR tracks. Old Train Depot. Also Elmdale in Ionia County. Mary Brady

Kent

Wyoming

Emmons #3f

34

54th at Byron Center Rd

Annexed to Granville, Ottawa County - Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Alpine

Englishville #14f

1

W

1852

8285 Vinton Ave, Sparta

Fractional with Sparta. The wooden-frame farm school was built in 1852 on the English property in S/1. In 1885, 36 students attended the school and teachers were paid $190. It was located on Vinton Ave where Englishville H.S. was located (closed 2014) It is still standing today. (11/24 Mary Brady says gone) Mary Brady

Kent

Ensley

Ensley Center #5

16

W/CB

By 1894-to 1963

Corn of 120th Street and Cypress.

Named Center because it was in the center of the township. Original school replaced by a cement block building in early 1900's. The building then served as the Township Hall

Kent

Courtland

Evans #5f or #6f

1

W

circa 1900-

8621 Benham

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society Submitted by Daniel Metsker

Kent

Grand Rapids

Fairmount Park #6

Location Unknown

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Walker

Fairview #12 or #11

NOR

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Vergennes

Fallasburg #1f

24

Log/W

W1867-1961

14029 Covered Bridge Rd south of McPherson Road, Lowell

Michigan State Historical Site. In 1999 designated a Historical District with the National Register of Historic Places. The log schoolhouse, built in 1867, is in what is now the Fallasburg Pioneer Park at 1124 Fallasburg Park Dr. NE Lowell Mi. Other history building, cared for by the local Historical Society are located there also. The schoolhouse is open most Sundays, June through September, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. or by appointment. Traveling Thru Time p. 233.

Kent

Ada

Farrell #6f

12

W

1854

Fractional; Western Michigan Genealogical Society. $450 was spent to build #6 Ferrell

Kent

Plainfield

First School

23

Log/W

1837

Erected on hill on Cornelius Friant's farm

Destroyed by first in 1838 and another built in its place of logs. Soon a frame school was constructed. Then 3 schools were built in quite close proximity. One on the NE corner of Sec 25 and it ended up sold at auction, moved and became part of a family dwelling. School located on the NW corner of section 23 was moved and remodeled and used for a school a long time. The 3 districts were united in 1878 and the same school was used until 1928. Since the school population was now on the south side of the river a new school was built there. This was then called the D. W. Richardson school. Plainfield Charter p. 99

Kent

Spencer

Fletcher

29

Kent

GR Township

Fonger Am Legion

2375 Wilson SW, Grand Rapids

Possibly a school. Mary Brady

Kent

Grand Rapids

Forest Hills #15

25

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Ada

Forest Hills School District

1957-current

Forest Hill Ave. Borders E edge

In 1956 the State of Michigan said every school district had to have its own H.S. In GR Township after 6th or 8th grade the students had transferred to Rockford or Creston in GR. Now the Township had to consolidate their rural schools and build a High School. This new district would cover 96 sq miles but was sparsely populated. The new district was named Forest Hills and took students from the six Township Elementary Schools: Orchard View, Collins, Knapp, Ada, Cascade and Martin. GR Township History p. 83

Kent

Vergennes

Fox's Corner #10

26/27

Gone - demolished

Kent

Algoma

Foxville/Fochville #13f

3

SW corner of Algoma Avenue and Indian Lakes Road, Algoma Twp. (atlas)

Located on the N side of 7 Mile Rd on the top of a hill east of Alpine Station.

Kent

Wyoming

Freeman #6

31

Org 1856

56th & Wilson

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Gaines

French Street #7

Ballards/Rouse

Location Unknown

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Gaines

Gannon #6

33

SE Corner of 100th & Kalamazoo

Restored into residence; built in 1883; in operation until 1957; contact - Esther Middlewood

Kent

Caledonia

Gerould #5

Log/W

1856-1888

1856-1888. MORSA. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Wyoming

Godfrey Lee #7

13

Org 1856

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Paris

Godwin

B

Old Plank Rd, near Godwin Tavern

History and directory of Kent County, 1870. Mary Brady

Kent

Paris

Godwin #6f

18

Log/B

1867-1925

Division NE cor 36th St.

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. The original log school located at Clyde Park and 36th St. Godwin School System formed 1867. This brick school was demolished in 1925. It stood where the District library now stands. The Bell since 1981 is in the lobby of new H.S. (Godwin's Park) Mary Brady

Kent

Algoma

Gougeberg/Galgeburg #3

27

W

1852/56-after 1952

1 mile S of Township center and 1/2 mile north of small collection of houses at Gougeberg.

When mill owned by C.C. Comstock burned the village failed, people moved away and school closed. - Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Courtland

Graham

27

W

1881- painted white

Kent

Wyoming

Grandville #1

18

1835 -

NOR Ottawa & White

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Grandville City

Grandville #10

City of Grandville

118 yrs old

Heritage Park, City of Grandville

Owned by Grandville Historical Commission. In Heritage park. Used as a living history museum for children. Mary Brady

Kent

Grattan

Grattan Center #8f

Michigan State University Grattan Grange #170 p. 87. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Spencer

Griswold #1f

17

SE corner 17 Mile & Harvard Ave.

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. After it closed was vacant and abandoned. Old School Project

Kent

Nelson

Grosvenor #1

8

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Alpine

Grove #15

W

See Beech Grove School #15. 1 teacher. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 561

Kent

Cascade

Grove #2

Log

1842-

Kent

Cascade

Grove #3

14

W

1852-

8185 36th St

Totally reconverted to AIR -BB. Ada, Michigan

Kent

Gaines

Hanna #8

23

School is owned by the Gaines Township Historical Society. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Bowne

Harris/Harris Creek #7

29

LOG/

by 1860-

Originally a log structure that burned in the 1860's

Originally a log school that burned. A replacement school was built Today Bowne is a small village Converted to a Residence. Information on this school including students and teachers is available at Bowne Center. The Slate Fall 2011

Kent

Ensley

Hillman #1

10

W

1887-1967

NW corner of 104th (Kendallville) and Cypress.

Originally School #2 but later became school #1 That first school was in section 9 but moved across the street to section 10. In 1887 there were 38 students enrolled with an average attendance of 21. Hilman consolidated with Tri-County in 1967. The school is owned today by the Bird family that own the market across the street.

Kent

Solon

Hoag #8

32

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Caledonia

Holy Corners #4

17

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. 2 teachers. History of Kent Co c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Alpine

Holy Trinity #11

26

W

1855-1869

Eberhard Cordes,

Catholic School

Kent

Oakfield

Horton #3f

18

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Algoma

House #7

23

W

1863

Near White Creek and Russell Roads (atlas)

Kent

GR Township

Huff #7

8

Log/Block

1852-

Originally on the S side of S/8

In 1862 the site was changed to the north side of S/8 on account of a division of the school district. A block house was erected on the N side of S/8 the following year which still is used for events. Huff School moved from GR Township into Grand Rapids Public Schools in 1960 when the land was annexed to Grand Rapids City. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Nelson

Huggard #7f

Fractional; Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Algoma

Hull #6

8

Log

1852

NE of Hull Road at Pine Island Rd (atlas)

No longer standing. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 526

Kent

Paris

Hurd #11

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Solon

Johnson #7

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Alpine

Johnson/Mill Pond/Tabor #13f

34

W

1839-1844 & 1859-

Originally on the ridge west of Solomon Wright's

Fractional with Walker Township. Also known as Johnson School. In 1844 a new school was built on the Erastus Clark property in the SE 1/4 of Section 32 and became known as the Tabor School. In 1859 the wooden-frame Johnson or Mill Pond school was built on Joseph Bullen's property in S/34 next to the Mill Pond. In 1885, 42 students were attending Johnson School and teachers were paid $100. No longer standing but is location of Kenowa Hills High School. Info from Marva Hathaway migenweb.org. 2 teachers. History of Kent Co c. 1881 p. 561

Kent

Wyoming/Paris

Kelloggsville #8f

25

W/B

by 1859

48th & Division Sts

Fractional with Paris. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. First crude wooden-frame school burned 1882. Replaced by a another one-room school. That replaced by a two-room school in 1907. In the early 1920's that building was torn-down and a new four-room brick school was built. In 1924, 4 more rooms added and in 1927, 8 more rooms and a gym were added. In 1936 it was a H.S. Godwin's Past. Mary Brady

Kent

Walker

Kenowa Hills #16

Kent

Solon

Kent

Kent

Tyrone

Kent City #4

28

Listing say Kent School, Tyrone. May be wrong sch.

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. Two-story, white with a bell tower. 4 to 8 rooms. Sat in middle of friends. (Superior View Photo) Mary Brady

Kent

Paris

Kentwood #8

34

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Walker

Kinney #5f

6

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

GR Township

Knapp #9

9

W

1851-1951

On Knapp east of Maguire in today's Knapp Valley

Knapp School was built as a solid wood frame building 24' by 30' with a good foundation. The school costs $2100. Later it was moved to make room for East Beltline. (photo of students after more, 1933. p. 40) Knapp school in the 1870's had such a fine reputation it was often referred to as the banner rural school in the county.The building now a permanent historical site with restored school and open to the public in the township park. GR township history p. 80 photo & page 73 photo of students. Photo of school today p. 27

Kent

Caledonia

Kraft #5

8

W

1888-1936

2nd bldg

Apartment. There is already a Caledonia #5. Gerould W. 1 teacher. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Caledonia

LaBarge #7

16

W

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. 2 teachers. History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 645

Kent

Cannon

Lakes #8

Location unknown

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. Mentioned, but no information History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 681

Kent

Tyrone

Leander Smith #4

29

W

1862

SE corner 84th St & Kalamazoo Ave (2nd school)

2nd school built in 1890, but badly vandalized by 1966. Today it is a residence. Godwin's Past. Kent.migenweb/directory 1870/tyrone. Mary Brady

Kent

Oakfield

Lessirer #7f

33

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Oakfield

Lincoln Heights #2f or #4

2

Kent

Oakfield

Lincoln Lake #4

16

SW corner 20 mile Road & Meddler Avenue

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. Converted to storage shed. Old School Project.

Kent

Bowne

Logan #5

24, M.B. says S/25

W

1852-1900

South side of 84th Avenue and Pratt Lake Ave. and Freeport Ave

Information on Logan to include it's students and staff is available at the Bowne Center. Logan School is gone

Kent

Tyrone

Longcore #9f

9

SW corner of 21 mile Rd & Tyrone Ave.

Fractional. Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. No longer standing.

Kent

East Grand Rapids

Lovett/Barnard

1851-1963

In 1922 it was sold to East GR School by West Mich. Catholic Diocese. In 1933 adapted for Kindergarten. Now demolished in 1963. Mary Brady

Kent

Bowne

Lowe #6

28

W

circa 1850-mid 1960's

NW corner of 100th street and Alden Nash Avenue.

Information on this school and it's students and teachers is available at Bowne Center. Lowe school is gone - Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Vergennes

Lowell

211 W Main St

Now Dovetail Antiques. 616-897-0898 and/or River Hollow 616-897-5000. Mary Brady

Kent

Lowell

Lowell #1

2

5 miles N of Lowell. MB

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. Abandoned. www.woodtv.com. Mary Brady

Kent

Spencer

Lyon #3 or #4

24?

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Sparta

Manchester #11

7

SW corner with Lutheran Church & Fruit Ridge Avenue. Dismantled.

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society. No longer standing.

Kent

Lowell

Mapes #6

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Wyoming

Maple Hill #10

31

44th at Wilson

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Grand Rapids

Martin #5f

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Grattan

Mason #4

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Lowell

McBride #5

Western Michigan GeneaLogical Society

Kent

Cannon/Ada

McCabe #1f

36

1870's-1920's

Gone. Burned 2nd building in operation 1920's-1958. Fractional with Ada & Vergennes Townships. 1870's-1920's. Converted into a residence. MORSA. Mentioned, but no information History of Kent County c. 1881 p. 681