This Adams County country school is one of hundreds simply withering away in the elements across the plains of North Dakota, having served its purpose in educating the children of the earliest settlers.

Most township schools like these, a single room structure constructed to conform with standard plans, were 18 x 32 and were staffed by a single teacher with students from first through eighth grade.

Consolidation and elimination of one-room schools began in 1908 when President Roosevelt appointed the National Commission on Country Life, and continued as automobiles became the primary mode of transportation for country residents, and mechanized farming reduced rural populations.

This school was posted “No Trespassing” so we didn’t get to go inside. It is located about six miles northeast of Reeder, North Dakota, not far from Wolf Butte Church.

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Photos by Troy Larson and Terry Hinnenkamp, copyright Sonic Tremor Media LLC

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