Westport’s first schoolhouse was built in 1812. With YouTube still 2 centuries in the future, you’d figure kids would have had few distractions, and could pay attention to the teacher.
On the other hand, with 37 students in one class, youngsters probably found other ways to goof off.
That first schoolhouse is now a private home. It — and 6 others — are featured on the Westport Historical Society’s upcoming Holiday House Tour (Sunday, December 10, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
The WHS honors the past — but its other foot is planted firmly in the present. So they’ve taken to YouTube to promote this annual fun fundraiser.
The video below offers tidbits about that original schoolhouse. (It’s also the location of what may be Westport’s first swimming pool. Who knew?)
This one shows a Cross Highway home, dating back to 1764. A century and a half later — which is more than a century ago — it was owned by George Hand Wright, a renowned artist and one of the founders of Westport’s “arts colony.”
This quick video only hints at the wonders of “Duck Haven.” It doesn’t show where it is — but we all drive past it often. We see the front from one direction, the back from another. And we all wonder what’s inside.
On December 10, you can explore the interiors of all 3 houses — and 4 more.
They’re all worth touring. It’s a chance to see Westport’s historic past, decorated beautifully for the 2017 holidays.
(Click here for more information, and tickets.)