AYER's historic schoolhouse

 Welcome to the home of the Sandy Pond School Association. Constructed in 1869 by the Town of Groton , Sandy Pond Schoolhouse was originally known as Groton's District #11 School. Following Ayer's separation from Groton in February 1871, it became part of the new Ayer school system. Listed on the National Register of Historic, Sandy Pond Schoolhouse is today Ayer's oldest public building, some two years older than Ayer itself. 

 Entering this little building today is like stepping into a time warp.   The teacher’s desk at the front of the room, slate blackboards, rows of wooden student desks, tongue and groove birch flooring, kerosene lamps, plaster walls and ceiling, and the wood stove at the back of the room evoke memories of an earlier era.

On September 14, 2019, fans & followers of Sandy Pond School  celebrated its 150th birthday at an Open House featuring tours of the schoolhouse, a birthday cake, free food, speakers, activities for children, and live music.     

 Attendees were able to see first hand  the recently completed repairs to the foundation, masonry, classroom ceiling and much new paint,  essential first steps in SPSA's long-term plan to preserve and restore this historic property.

Following the closing of Sandy Pond School in 1906, it was acquired ​​by the newly formed Sandy Pond School Association.  The founding members of SPSA were local residents, most of whom had attended Sandy Pond School. Their goal was to preserve the school in order to make  use of it for reunions and other community events. The first Sandy Pond School Annual Reunion took place on June 27, 1908. On December 22, 1908, the Town of Ayer officially conveyed the property to the newly formed Association for the price of $1.00.

Thanks to the Association’s efforts over the years, the Sandy Pond School stands in remarkably well preserved condition.  Moreover, it is featured on page 7 of the Massachusetts State Historic Preservation Plan 2018-2022.