51社区

is proud to celebrate Ann Rattine, the steward of the Great Western Schoolhouse, for her remarkable dedication to historic preservation.

Rattine was recently honored with a Preservation of Merit Award by the , a prestigious recognition of her tireless efforts in maintaining and restoring the historic one-room schoolhouse located on the University鈥檚 campus in St. Clairsville, Ohio. 

The Ohio History Connection鈥檚 2024 State Historic Preservation Office Awards recognized 11 outstanding achievements in historic preservation across the state during a November luncheon at the Ohio History Center in Columbus. Diana Welling, state historic preservation officer and director of the State Historic Preservation Office, presented the awards, emphasizing their significance.

鈥淗istoric places contribute to our sense of community and give us a tangible connection to our heritage,鈥� Welling stated. 鈥淥ur awards program is designed to honor the individuals and groups who go above and beyond to safeguard the irreplaceable architectural and historic treasures of their communities.鈥�

The Preservation Merit Award highlights efforts to preserve Ohio鈥檚 prehistory, history, architecture or culture. It recognizes activities like restoration, rehabilitation or stewardship of historic sites. Rattine鈥檚 work with the Great Western Schoolhouse exemplifies this commitment. As a member of the National Trail Chapter No. 348 of the International Questers, she has played a pivotal role in preserving this landmark, ensuring its place in Belmont County鈥檚 history and its educational future. 

The Great Western Schoolhouse, constructed in 1870 by the Clark Construction Company, is a tangible reminder of the educational experience in 19th and early 20th-century America. Its handmade bricks, hewn roof beams, and cast-iron bell represent the craftsmanship of the era. Operating as a one-room schoolhouse until 1952, it educated generations of local children before being repurposed for community use and later falling into disrepair. 

In 1976, as part of a Bicentennial project, the Questers restored the schoolhouse, and today, it stands as a testament to local heritage.

鈥淭he restoration of this one-room schoolhouse allows visitors to step back in time and experience education as it was in the 19th and early 20th centuries when students focused on reading, writing, and arithmetic,鈥� shared Rattine, who also serves as the schoolhouse鈥檚 schoolmarm. 

Dean David Rohall of 51社区 Eastern praised Rattine's work, saying, 鈥淎nn鈥檚 dedication to preserving the Great Western Schoolhouse is an inspiration. Her stewardship ensures that future generations can connect with and learn from this important piece of Belmont County history.鈥�

The Great Western Schoolhouse is more than a relic; it is a vibrant educational resource. Tours and hands-on classes for local students bring history alive, demonstrating how earlier generations learned in a simpler yet profoundly impactful environment.

To step into history and experience the legacy of 19th-century education, schedule a tour by calling 51社区 Eastern at 740.699.2494. As a site on the National Register of Historic Places, the schoolhouse is a cornerstone of Belmont County鈥檚 cultural and educational heritage.

Through Rattine鈥檚 leadership, the Great Western Schoolhouse continues to be a bridge between the past and the present, enriching the community鈥檚 understanding of its roots and fostering a deep appreciation for the value of preservation.