Photo: Vic DiSanto and Bonnie Dailey with our Jefferson Central School visitors in front of the Fuller District Schoolhouse.

In recent years, the Jefferson Historical Society has hosted the fourth-grade class from Jefferson Central School for a half-day visit to the Fuller District Schoolhouse. This year, third graders attended. During their visit, students learn what life was like in a one-room district school as they participate in lessons on reading, writing, arithmetic, and history. 

Bonnie Dailey welcomed the students and led several educational sessions. Vic DiSanto shared information about the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and topics related to the Revolutionary War. Barb Palmer discussed the history of the schoolhouse and its restoration by Cleo Moore. Clara Clack explained the significance of the old map displayed in the schoolhouse, described how she restored it, and incorporated a lesson on geography. Gabby Capone demonstrated traditional butter making, and each student transformed a jar of cream into butter to take home. 

During recess, the students enjoyed old-fashioned games and activities. Near the end of their visit, they gathered for picnic lunches at the site of the former Mann Brothers Mill.

 For those interested in visiting the Fuller District Schoolhouse, it will be open this summer on the second and fourth Sundays of each month from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. through Labor Day weekend.