A Pioneer in Public Education
The Massie Common School House is Georgia's only remaining building from its old chartered public school system. Built in 1855 and opened in 1856, this historic schoolhouse boasts Greek Revival architectural style designed by New York architectJohn S. Norris, representing a signature of Savannah's nineteenth-century architecture.
It all started when Peter Massie, a Scottish planter, had a vision: "For the education of the poor children of Savannah". Massie was passed down a sum of $5,000 through a will in 1840 and invested the money until it grew enough to build the school.
Center Building Cost: $9,000 to the city (original structure)
Expansion: West wing (1872) and East wing (1886) added later
The original structure is composed of just the center portion of the building. Later, a west wing was added in 1872, designed by architect John B. Hogg, and in 1886 came the east wing, creating the comprehensive educational facility that stands today.
Civil War and Reconstruction Era
The school's history took a dramatic turn during the Civil War, serving multiple roles during one of America's most turbulent periods and reflecting the changing social dynamics of education in the South.
School closed and converted into a hospital for federal troops duringSherman's March
Winter 1864-65 - Union Occupation
General William T. Sherman's 60,000 Union soldiers used the school to keep warm and broke down the school's furnace
Spring 1865 - Freedmen's School
Briefly operated as a school for the Freedmen utilizing teachers from the American Missionary Association (lasted only a few months)
Progressive Educational Practices
The Massie Common School House was one of the few controversial schools that had both girls and boys in one classroom, even though they were separated on the playground. This coeducational approach was progressive for its time and represented forward-thinking educational philosophy.
Educational Significance
Coeducational Pioneer: Controversial mixed-gender classrooms (separated on playground)
Public Education: Part of Georgia's chartered public school system
Unique Survivor: Only remaining building for chartered public schools in Georgia
Prime Location: Situated by Calhoun Square, the only square with all original buildings intact
Massie Heritage Center Today
After the school closed its doors, it operated as a storage facility for the school system for some time. The Friends of Massie Committee then transitioned the building to what it has become today: the Massie Heritage Centre.
Heritage Center Mission
For over 40 years, the Massie Heritage Center has focused on educating visitors about Savannah's rich local history, architecture, city planning, character education, and the history of public schools. They host a yearly event, The May Day Festival, celebrating the building's educational legacy.
Visitor Exhibitions
Architectural History: Detailed exploration of Savannah's building styles and urban development
Native American History: Comprehensive coverage of coastal Georgia's indigenous peoples
Public School History: Interactive exhibits on early childhood education and American schooling
3D Historic District Layout: Physical model showing Savannah's unique urban planning
Visitors today can enjoy a wealth of knowledge through the heritage center's many exhibitions detailing Savannah's rich history. The schoolhouse-turned heritage center pays tribute to many facets of American history and is worth stopping by on your next trip to Savannah.