The Schoolhouse Museum was established to preserve, showcase and explain the early history of African-American education in Isle of Wight County. The museum is set in a traditional 1-room structure which would have accommodated children of both sexes and various ages. Artifacts on display in the museum include a first-grade reader dating back to 1900, a slate writing board, students’ desks, several certificates and documents and a wood-burning stove which was used for heating the classroom. Other exhibits include the school bell and an outhouse. The Schoolhouse Museum is located in the Smithfield Historic District and is open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays from 12 noon to 4pm.

The Schoolhouse Museum, 516 Main Street, Smithfield, VA 23431, 757 357 5182

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