Belmont School, originally known as Big Creek Academy, has been successfully moved to its new location, just 700 feet east of its original site—ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
On August 30th, Tugaloo House Movers transported the historic structure, saving it from demolition by neglect. Now, the school will be reimagined, restored, and adapted into a home and office for local preservationist Stephanie Cowan.
The exterior will undergo a full restoration, while the single-room interior will be thoughtfully transformed to accommodate living spaces, all while preserving its original charm and historical integrity.
A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated crew who made the move possible, to Cowan for her ongoing stewardship and vision, and to everyone who rallied together to save this important piece of Athens history. This circa 1896 schoolhouse has officially been saved and is getting a second lease on life!
📸 Caitlin Short, caitlin.e.photo
The Belmont School dates back to the mid-19th century, when a man named William Morton owned the land that the old school is on now. William Morton had a son named James, who he sold the land to in 1896. in 1904, when James was 34 years old, he sold the land to the Athens-Clarke County Board of Education, which is the same year the school is presumed to have been built. Taken in Athens, Georgia, on October 18, 2018.
I somehow missed in the article where it said it’s original location was. Where was/is it?