East Attleborough Academy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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East Attleborough Academy
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East Attleborough Academy
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Attleboro, Massachusetts |
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| Built | 1843 |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 85000694 |
| Added to NRHP | April 4, 1985 |
The East Attleborough Academy is an old and important building in Attleboro, Massachusetts. It was built way back in 1843. This building is special because it's the only one in town that looks like an ancient Greek temple! Over the years, it has been many things. It started as a private school, then became Attleboro's first high school. Later, it was an office building. Today, it's home to the local historical society, which helps preserve the town's past. This historic building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
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What Makes the East Attleborough Academy Special?
The East Attleborough Academy building is located on the north side of Attleboro's town center. It is a two-story building made of wood. Its most striking feature is its front, which looks like an ancient Greek temple. Four tall, fluted columns stand at the front. These columns support a flat, decorated beam and a triangular roof section, just like a temple.
A Closer Look at the Design
The building sits on a brick foundation. Interestingly, this building has been moved twice! The main entrance is in the middle of the front, behind the columns. The corners of the building also have decorative flat columns. Each side of the building has four windows spaced evenly. A two-story section extends from the back of the main building.
A Building with Many Lives
This historic building has served many purposes over its long history. It has played an important role in the education and community life of Attleboro.
From Private School to Public High School
The building was first built in 1843 as a private school. It was known as a private academy. It served students in this way until 1864. A few years later, in 1867, the town of Attleboro rented the building. They used it to house their very first public high school.
The Building on the Move
The academy building has been moved more than once! In 1874, it was moved a short distance from its original spot. Records are not clear on the exact new location. Then, in 1889, it was moved back to its first location. When it was moved back, it was placed on a new, stronger brick foundation. The high school moved out of the building in 1882.
New Roles and Current Use
Around 1900, the building was used for the town's school superintendent's offices. In 1920, the town finally bought the building. Today, the East Attleborough Academy building is home to the local historical society. This group works to protect and share the history of Attleboro. Architecturally, it remains the only building in Attleboro with a Greek Revival temple front. This makes it a truly unique and important landmark.
