Located at 52 Heatherdowns Lane within The Galena Territory, Belden School was founded in 1859 and served as a schoolhouse for 84 years. It was also a community-gathering place where local residents came to vote, levy taxes and socialize. Then for 61 years it sat empty, falling into disrepair. In 2004 a serious, committed, restoration effort began with the formation of the Belden School Restoration Committee.

After five years of hard work, research, fundraising, volunteerism, time, talent, support, generous gifts, donations, and grants, the Sesquicentennial Celebration and Rededication Program Open House was held September 5, 2009.

Belden School is open from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays of each month June through October. The first Saturday follows an open-house format with docents present to help visitors learn about the one-room schoolhouse. On the third Saturday, in addition to the docents, a special guest will present a program of interest to the public. The programs begin at 1:00 p.m. and last about an hour. They are free and structured for children and adults.

A walk up Trail 2B to Belden School is well worth the trip. The building is authentically restored, the view of the valley is magnificent, and the brick patio offers a serene spot to contemplate the surrounding beauty.

Belden School is not just an old building in the woods. It reminds us that we, as individuals and as a community, have an obligation and an opportunity to help preserve what has been left to us by those who lived before us. It provides a wonderful view of the history of education in Guilford Township.

Visit their website at www.beldenschool.com