Octagon Schoolhouse

Then		Now

1895 Built in 1792		2002

Octagon Schoolhouse

According to the late historian, Harvey Mowder, the Octagon Schoolhouse was built in 1792 on an old Indian trail which crossed the Musconetcong River at the Washington/Mansfield Township line. It is believed to be one of the oldest eight-square schools in New Jersey and the United States.

The school was shaped like an octagon and built out of stone. There was one window in each of seven sides and a door in the eighth side. It contained only one classroom with desks and chairs made of rough slabs of wood. It is said to have housed as many as ninety students in the early 1800's.

The schoolhouse was abandoned just after the Civil War and collapsed in the early 1900's. The stones were used for the foundation of a house built nearby.

The following poem written by Harvey Mowder was copied from the "Harvey S. Mowder Testimonial Dinner" (after 46 years as Washington Township Clerk).

THE EIGHT SQUARE SCHOOLHOUSE

-Built In The Township 1792-

It stood by the side of the Indian trail

this ancient house of learning,

Twas also the meeting place when

the nation’s fires were burning.

It was the church on the Sabbeth day,

the Fort on an Indian Raid

But now like its builders, it has

slowly passed away.

But I like to think at even' tide

as the night hush "steals" in valley,

Its "Spirit Scholars" oft return and hold alumni rallies

Oh the debt we owe to this old shrine.

My words just go a yearning;

But in our hearts we love this spot,

Where our granddads got their learning.

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