sandy pond recognized as a national landmark schoolhouse

Built in 1868, Sandy Pond Schoolhouse is Ayer's oldest public building. It celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2019, and in May 2024 the completion of a major multi-year restoration effort. Closed as a school in 1906, it was acquired by the newly founded Sandy Pond School Association in 1908. SPSA, an all-volunteer organization, has now maintained and managed the building for over a century.  Since its closing as a school, Ayer's "little red schoolhouse" has enjoyed a lively second chapter during which it has been the venue for a wide range of community and public events and activities. Today, the newly restored schoolhouse is once again open to the public for Open Houses and other events, including elementary school field trips.

SPSA is  pleased to announce that In addition to its listing on the  National Register of Historic Places, Ayer's historic schoolhouse is now also listed on the Country School Association of America's (CSAA) National Schoolhouse Register. 

Through this program, CSAA recognizes school buildings that contribute in a ;positive way to the appreciation and understanding of the country school experience. Markers are awarded to school buildings that are at least 50 years old, well-maintained, and have been restored, renovated, or reconstructed to retain the integrity of their original design.