Seven to Save 2022: Newington Stone School

The Newington Stone School was constructed in 1920-21 to accommodate an expected surge in student population thanks to a new, but short-lived, shipyard that closed shortly after World War I. Locals collected fieldstone for the exterior and the construction was partially paid for with timber sales from the adjacent town forest. Like the Carroll County Courthouse, another of this year’s listees, the architect was Albert H. Dow. 

When the Air Force Base was constructed in the back yard, classroom instruction became too difficult and the government paid for a new school to be built outside of the village. The Federal Government then took the Stone School and used the building until the Cold War ended and the base closed in the early 1990’s. The school was then leased back to the town for community use. In 2000, the Stone School was officially deeded back to the Town, but it was in poor condition.   

In 2003, the Town had an historic building assessment performed that recommended renovations, which they voted on in 2004. While the bond article received a simple majority, it did not receive 2/3 majority. Since 2003, the building has sat vacant. 

Now, a new group has formed to save the school and encourage its new use as a community center for the small town that has seen a significant decline in civic and social engagement. The school’s advocates must establish a plan, raise funds, and act with resolve. Other competing interests for the building and its land include demolition by neglect and take over by private entities or the fire department. 

This is also Newington’s second Seven to Save listee in two years. Last year, the Newington Railroad Depot was added to the list. Having both of these historic landmarks recognized will hopefully help to build support for the town’s heritage before it’s too late.

Stay up to date on this program, including when submissions open for next year’s list, and browse listees from past years (we’ve been highlighting endangered properties since 2006!) by vising the Seven to Save homepage.

Are you part of a group involved with one of our previous listees? We’d love to hear how you’re doing! Call us at (603) 224-2281 or email seventosave@nhpreservation.org.