Marshall Miles Interviews Ralph Fedele, The Irondale Schoolhouse in Millerton

The Irondale schoolhouse dating back to the late 1850s was one of 14 original one room schools serving the town of North East. With its original purpose over, it seemed destined for eventual demolition until 2008 when a small group of local residents incorporated as the Friends of the Irondale Schoolhouse with the following goals.

THE MISSION

Save the building from further deterioration, restore the building as nearly as possible to its former self, relocate the structure to the village center making it more accessible. Once completed, repurpose the building to function as a public information and visitor center.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Thanks to the support of countless volunteers and generous donations, the schoolhouse was relocated in December 2013. The restoration process has been meticulously completed with an eye toward keeping the building as original as possible and is now open for business. The schoolhouse is open weekends from the end of May through mid-October. Local volunteers man the building and will be available to assist visitors as needed.

FUTURE

Positioned on the Harlem Valley Rail Trail, the schoolhouse has drawn visitors from near and far. It will serve to educate the public not only about our past but continue its function as an institution for learning.

DONATIONS

Friends of the Irondale Schoolhouse (“FOISH”) is a nonprofit organization relies on volunteers and donations to operate the schoolhouse and the functions provided to the community. Without either, there would be no schoolhouse. We want to thank those that have helped us to achieve our goals. While the building restoration has been completed the need for funds to support ongoing efforts remains.

You can vote your support for the schoolhouse by sending your tax-free donations to the following:

FRIENDS OF THE IRONDALE SCHOOLHOUSE, PO BOX 876, MILLERTON, NEW YORK 12546.