Preserve Spanish Fork Schoolhouse

In 1872, a group of young men from Spanish Fork were determined to build a place to gather and educate themselves. Under the leadership of 20 year old George A. Brimhall, they created the Young Men's Academy (now, the Old Academy). Built through community effort, various members contributing their resources and skills. Shares were sold to raise money and furnish the school with a stove, teacher's desk, and blackboard. It began as the Young Men's Academy but quickly became a co-ed school where students came to further their learning. The Academy also housed various community and learning activities including a debate society, newsletter printing, dances, choir practices and social gatherings.

In 1932 the Old Academy school building was moved to City Square in Spanish Fork where it housed the museum for the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers. It served faithfully as a museum until around 1965 when the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers outgrew the building and due to some fire damage, the city was planning to tear it down. Ivan Johnson was given permission to move the building to his property

Having a place to gather is an important part of any community and we love the Academy's significance in Utah's educational history: a tribute to those early settler's commitment to education and community. Keeping historical buildings help us connect to our local history. While the Utah Historical Society and Daughter's of the Utah Pioneers have been able to offer informative help and encouragement, they are unable to provide funding for the Academy's restoration. Due to its age, location, and proximity to other buildings, the Academy cannot be moved.

However, the Academy needs our help to be preserved and restored. We recently purchased our home with the Academy on site and the Academy is in desperate need of a new roof, re-chinking, stain to protect the wood, window repairs, and a wall reinforcement. If we are able to address these issues now, the Old Academy will serve community for years to come as a reminder of the early pioneer heritage and their commitment to education and community. Having places to visit and remember the foundational period of Spanish Fork history will help shape the future and priorities of the communities going forward. Keeping history alive is crucial.

Please consider making a donation to preserve this part of Utah's history and to keep the Young Men's Academy standing. We are committed to keeping this historical building alive and well but we do need help from the community to make it possible. Every donation helps us reach our goal.

In addition, if you have a skill or period appropriate material to donate, please email spanishforkacademy at gmail.com. We welcome and appreciate anyone with expertise, including in historical building preservation, roofing, chinking, painting, carpentry, etc.