| History
of East Bolton |
Page 1
5 The little “Red School House” (photo 1940) The little “Red School House” in South Bolton was built in 1853 and was closed in 1954. A four-month summer term, attended by the little ones, and a four-month winter term for the older ones, up to 20 years of age, made up the school year. The East Bolton School Board sold it to the Women’s Institute in 1954, which used it for their hall until 2003. The house was repaired through the years without any important change.The last owners are the descendants of the St-Pierre and Labranche families who have renovated the building while keeping its historical character.
6 Cooledge Schoolhouse in Knowlton’s Landing The Cooledge Schoolhouse in Knowlton’s Landing, built around 1810-1815, is the oldest school in East Bolton. It was located on the corner of Cooledge and Mountain Roads at 102 Cooledge. Church services officiated by Reverend Stark from Austin were also conducted there. The building was sold 6 times since 1975; the current owners have been there since 1992.
7 Bolton Centre Train Station In 1874, the Misssisquoi and Black Rivers Valley Company (M& BRV) built the first railway line on John Church Pickel’s farm that ran along the Missisquoi River. The train station was in operation from November 1877 to 1936. It was located on chemin Nicholas-Austin, in the first corner going up the hill. The railroad serviced the copper mines and logging operations, transported merchandise and passengers, among others those who in 1875 travelled to Potton Springs where a spa-type hotel was very popular for its therapeutic sulphur springs. Apparently local folks then paid 10 cents for a one-way trip to Potton Springs and came back on foot.
8 Inside the Cooledge Schoolhouse |
