By Steve Sears

The Old Monroe School House is one of the earliest remaining buildings in the Hardyston Township area of Sussex County, New Jersey, and it is a true reminder of education prior to the 20th century.

Bill Truran, President of the Hardyston Historical Society, and also the official historian of the township and Sussex County, said about The Old Monroe School House, “It is from before 1820. During that time a school would educate the local youth up to about what we would call today eighth grade. Since the kids would have to walk, it was only the local farms who provided the students. What is amazing is that two years ago, we had an event where we put a new flight pole up, and about 30 people showed up. Amongst these people were the descendants of those original farmers from the early mid 1800s. We have such a wonderful area out here, and people have stayed here for generations, as seen in this case.”

The Old Monroe School House is located on Route 94, and was entered into the National Register of Historic Places on August 12, 1977. Although a very old building, the structure is, according to Truran, “in pretty solid shape.” Used for many years as a school, it now is owned by the township who let the historical society use it. The building is open during the Annual Sussex County Heritage Weekend in mid-October, normally the same weekend that Columbus Day is recognized. 

Truran said, “We have had some homeschooled students come by with their parents to see what it was like in the old days to go to school. We also are expecting a large group of senior citizens to come by and see what life was like even well before their time.”

And a visit yields a lovely area and, obviously, a wonderful trip back in time.

“When it is open,” Truran said, “it is operated by the historical society and our precious docents who volunteer their time to show people around. Visitors will be able to park near some picnic tables and shade trees, including maples and beeches. Coming in the door, they will see and be transported back to around 1890s when they see the old-time desks with the hole for the inkwell and the groove for pencils. Interestingly, the groove for pencils may soon be as unrecognizable as the inkwells were with our current technologies. Old maps and old books are evident on the shelves, and the spirit of yesterday year may arise with the simplicity and quietness of the room.”

The Hardyston Historical Society welcomes new members, and there is no fee to visit The Old Monroe School House. Donations are gratefully accepted, however, which are used to keep the building in good order for future visitors for years to come. For more information, visit www.hardystonhistorical.com.

Also, to learn further about the area, visit Truran’s personal site at www.truran.com.