MONTICELLO — The Monticello School was a significant landmark in the town. When people pass by older buildings they are reminded of the history they encompass within their walls, as well as the people of the times, their aspirations and lifestyles.
MONTICELLO HISTORY — Janet McCluskey Bates, left, painted a picture of the Monticello School and donated it to the town. Accepting the donation is Ginger Pryor, Monticello town manager; and Kay Bell, who attended the Monticello School, which was demolished in 1988.
In 1911, land was bought from Joel Wellington to erect a school building. Superintendent Guy Fletcher suggested that the town raise $2,000 in 1912 and in the next year raise another $2,000, with the balance needed to finish paying for the building raised through a temporary loan of $3,000 by the town and by selling off the old individual school houses situated around the rural roads in Monticello.
The actual construction of the elementary school began in the fall of 1913. The spring term of 1914 marked the opening of the new building for classes. The length of the school year in 1914 was 28 weeks. It was also in that same year that the first school well was drilled at a cost of $225.
Janet McCluskey Bates had the inspiration to paint a picture of the old school because of many happy memories of classmates, teachers and friends. Also, the Monticello School became history in 1988 when they demolished the building; and now in 2014, Wellington School has also become history with its closing.
