I decided to do some driving on this long Memorial Day weekend and headed down into Southern Indiana for a little while. As I have friends in Cannelton, I opted for a quick trip through this town and became intrigued by this school building marked with a "Free School" plaque. I discovered amazing history. Originally known as "Free School," this building is now known as Myers Grade School. It was built in 1868 and is the oldest public school to be in continuous use in Indiana (and some believe the country). It continues to be used as an elementary school by Cannelton School District, though in the late 19th century it was Cannelton High School. From what I understand, it also goes by Cannelton Elementary School. Think about that. Built in 1868 and still in use as a school! Cannelton has a relatively small school district with an early learning center, an elementary school, and a junior-senior high school. The entire school system has 279 students. The school was renamed Myers Grade School after the retirement of a popular teacher - Oscar" Daddy" Myers. The school still has the original slate chalkboards, original staircases, and original woodwork. However, Myers Grade School also has computers in every classroom and internet. Since it's an active elementary school, you can't simply go in and tour it. However, it's a fascinating part of Indiana's educational history and the city of Cannelton actually has information about the school on its website. read more

Myers Grade School - The "Free School" plaque. - Elementary Schools Near Me - Cannelton, Indiana