A Washington Township historic schoolhouse made the move to its new home Friday.
The Thorington School House, which opened in 1840, sat vacant for years on Mound and 31 Mile roads.
Washington Township Supervisor Sebastian Previti was able to secure the purchase of the school for $125,000 following approval from the Township Board of Trustees with a 6 to 1 vote.
The decision was ultimately made to move the schoolhouse to a five-acre plot at 31 Mile Road between Mound and Campground roads. Previti said it will be the “focal point” of a new park that will feature a play structure, pavilion and pickleball courts. 15 orchards in the area are each donating an apple tree that will be planted near the schoolhouse.
The park will be called “Thorington Park.”
The larger area will also allow the schoolhouse to be completely restored and preserved. Previti said the ultimate plan is to use the building year-round. Elementary students will be able to take field trips to the school and it will be available for rent.
A new HVAC system is being installed in the basement that the building now sits on. Experts said the system will help prevent further decay following the restoration.
Previti said the project has brought the community together. Designs for the park were submitted by Romeo High School architecture students. Romeo High School students in the Building Trades program will be working on construction and restoration to the schoolhouse, using materials donated by multiple corporations.
Residents have offered wood and desks from the time period as well. Previti said he believes the building will be restored to its original condition using materials from the era.