1909 Hebron Bicentennial Postcard of Hebron buildings

This building now used by the American Legion was built after the fire of 1882 as the center village school. In the mid 1800’s, the center of Hebron had one of the densest populations in town, competing in number were various mill villages like Hope Valley and Amston (Turnerville). Early New England towns had to provide basic education for its children, but there were no mandatory attendance laws. Students came when they could be spared from farm work and ended their education when they or their families felt they had enough education. The Hebron Center School was an-integrated school in the 19th century with Yankee and African American students learning side by side. The Peters, Barber and other African American families all sent their children here. In 1949, Hebron’s district schools were consolidated into Hebron Elementary School. In 1957 RHAM Middle and High School opened.

In the early 1800’s a two-story schoolhouse stood on this site. The lower floor served as a schoolroom. The upper story served as a town hall. The building wasn’t properly constructed. At one point, right before a vote at a town meeting, the floor separated from the wall creating a giant slide propelling the town’s leaders on to a heap on the ground. No one was hurt, so the meeting was moved to the steps of the Congregational Church and the vote was taken.

Think about it

Do you know anyone who attended Hebron Elementary or RHAM?

Do you know any veterans who live in or around Hebron?

Use your imagination—The little square part of the roof is a cupola. It probably housed a large bell that would be rung when the school day began. Close your eyes and imagine what it would be like to hear a school bell welcoming you to school each day. Which door would you choose to enter the school?

Where to go next

From here walk toward the Floor Girl Bakery

Meet Your Neighbors QR Tours funded by the Hebron Greater Together Community Fund in conjunction with the Hebron Historical Society