The Old Academy of Walpole

The Old Academy was designed and built in 1831 by Aaron P. Howland, a local carpenter and cabinetmaker who was influenced by the Greek revival style.  He set the building like a temple on a knoll overlooking Main Street, and designed it with classical columns, a cupola belfry, and large rooms with generous windows.

The Academy served first as a private school for young ladies and men from towns on both sides of the Connecticut River.  Some lived at home while others boarded in the village.

In 1853 the building was purchased by the town and modified for use as a public school.  It continued as Walpole High School for almost a century, until 1950 when it was auctioned to the Walpole Historical Society for a museum and the Society's headquarters.

Inherent in the ownership of an historic building is the continuing job of maintenance and repair.  Much has been done to upgrade and preserve the building, and these efforts continue.  Donations to fund these costly repairs are always welcome.

In a 2001 Conservation Assessment Survey Report by the Institute of Museum Services, the building was termed "an architectural monument of real significance to the community and to the state."

Walpole Historical Society ♦ 32 Main St. ♦ PO Box 292 ♦ Walpole, NH  03608 ♦ (603) 756-3449 ♦ info@WalpoleHistory.org