Bell Tower Reconstruction Project – 2023
Clearfield Schoolhouse today (2023)
History of Clearfield School
Established in 1852 by German settlers, Clearfield District #58 (formerly Union #24) is considered to be the second oldest school district in Kansas. The current building was built about a mile east, circa 1900, replacing a log structure, and was moved with the use of steam tractors to this location in 1908. The school consolidated with the Baldwin schools in 1946. The Grange #1451 met in this building until they disbanded in 1991. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014.
Bell Tower Project – 2023
The school building originally had a bell tower above the front doors. Santa Fe Trail Historical Society received an ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) grant from Douglas County to reconstruct the bell tower. A vintage bell from another school house will also be installed. The project will be completed in the fall of 2023 – hopefully in time for the Farm Tour!
Below are current pictures of the project viewed from the front (south side) of the building:
And more from the east side of the building:
