Brownsville School #1 in Calvin Township, Cass County, stands safe and secure under a new roof, and summer visitors will stand safe and secure on retooled floor.
Private donations and proceeds from the Raise the Roof Yard Sale enabled Underground Railroad Society of Cass County (URSCC) to complete these crucial pieces of preservation work that complement the foundation work completed in July 2024. URSCC will begin restoration work on the windows and the bell tower as funds become available. $20,000 will spirit these two phases of preservation to completion and finish the project.
Brownsville School will be open 11:00 – 5:00 during Underground Railroad Days July 12 and 13 with photographs and information about Brownsville and Cass County’s many integrated, one-room, public schools on display.
Evidence supports that the c.1840 Brownsville #1 is the first and longest integrated public school in Michigan, perhaps in the country, a legacy of Underground Railroad in this community.
URSCC extends sincere appreciation to donors who have made Brownsville’s preservation work to date possible. Donations for final phases may be made at friendsofbrownsvilleschool.org—or mail URSCC PO Box 124, Vandalia, MI 49095.
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