WHS' New Exhibit on Westport School Days to Open Jan. 29

Westport, CT -- Westport Historical Society proudly presents a new exhibit, “Westport School Days 1703-Present” in its Sheffer Gallery. The opening reception will take place on Sunday, January 29, from 3 – 5 pm immediately following the Annual Meeting. This exhibit  highlights the evolution of formal education in Westport.  The story begins with the 1650 Code of Connecticut which describes the educational requirements for the parishes in Connecticut.  Beginning with the first formal teacher in Green’s Farms in 1703; the exhibit will chronicle what the eight public and several private schools of Westport were like.

There will be a progression map from 1858-2016 detailing each school’s earliest location and development.   A brief history of the benefactors who initiated new schools, memorabilia, and early photos will also be displayed.   Group photos of student classes from the late nineteenth century to the present day will also be highlighted. This comprehensive exhibit will include lively tours of Westport’s own Adams Academy, on North Morningside Drive, which was built in 1830 as a private school, and shows you an actual one-room schoolhouse and exemplifies early education in our community.

The Mollie Donovan Gallery will highlight the Westport Public Library from its original building on Post Road to what the future plans hold for an ever changing community resource. Westport Historical Society hopes this exhibit will bring back many fond memories, as well as focus an educational light on Westport’s growth as an exceptional center for learning.

The Sheffer Gallery is open Monday through Friday 10 am to 4 pm. Saturdays from Noon – 4 pm. The exhibit runs through March 24.  There is no charge, however donations are always welcome.

Sponsors for this exhibit include Gateway Printing, Laurence S. Untermeyer and Pequot Running Club and curated by Bob Weingarten. For more information, call 203-222-1424 or visit westporthistory.org.