Step back in time at the Tiverton Four Corners Schoolhouse No. 1, a historic building in the heart of Tiverton Four Corners, Rhode Island. Originally built in the early 1800s, this charming one-room schoolhouse has been fully renovated into a comfortable and stylish home, blending historic character with modern luxury. From its wide-plank pine floors to the vintage school bell, every corner tells a story.
The Origins of Schoolhouse No. 1
Schoolhouse No. 1 was constructed in the 1800s to serve the small Tiverton community. In an era when education was local and intimate, this one-room schoolhouse welcomed children of all ages, teaching them reading, writing, arithmetic, and the life skills of early New England.
Imagine students sitting at wooden desks, sunlight streaming through tall windows, and the crisp sound of chalk against blackboards. The building was more than a school—it was a hub for the community, a place where neighbors gathered, stories were shared, and lifelong friendships were formed. Historically, there were 12 one room schoolhouses in Tiverton. WIth the advent of public transportation, there were consolidated into the Nonquit School on Neck Road. Interested to learn more? Visit the Tiverton Historical Society’s Back to School Page.
A Historic Transformation: From Schoolhouse to Home
In 1928, Schoolhouse No. 1 was converted into a private residence. For a period, it was owned by the Rego family, and we had the privilege of becoming friendly with Irene who spent some of her childhood here. It was her father that installed the wood burning fireplace that remains today.
We purchased the home when it was under construction. After the purchase we learned from our neighbor that it used to be a one room schoolhouse, confirmed by this photo in “The Patchwork of Tiverton History” we found in the library.
We rebuilt the front of the building to look exactly like it had when it was a Schoolhouse, including the copula, built to exact specifications of the photos. We found an historic schoolbell in Ohio and had it shipped to RI. Later, Irene would tell us that the original bell was in New Hampshire.
Today, guests enjoy:
- A gourmet kitchen with all the appliances needed for a perfect stay.
- A cozy living room centered around a wood-burning fireplace, perfect for chilly New England evenings.
- A Whirlpool tub for relaxing after a day of exploring Tiverton Four Corners.
- A private brick patio with a gas grill, blending indoor comfort with outdoor charm.
Every detail was thoughtfully updated to retain the building’s character while offering a luxurious guest experience.
Historic Features You’ll Love
Some features of Schoolhouse No. 1 are true time travelers:
- The 24-inch cast-iron school bell stands as a proud reminder of the building’s original purpose.
- The wide-plank pine floors are not original but we hope they add warmth and authenticity.
- Carefully curated historic memorabilia gives the home a sense of story and continuity.
Staying here isn’t just about comfort-it’s about living history. Guests often remark on the sense of stepping into another era while enjoying every modern convenience.
Life in the Schoolhouse Over the Years
Imagine a day in the life of the schoolhouse in the 1800s: children arriving at dawn, lessons in arithmetic and reading, recess in the fresh air, and the bell signaling the end of the school day. Over the decades, the building has witnessed:
- Changes in education and local community life.
- The transition from a bustling public school to a private home.
- Generations of families and memories woven into its walls.
These stories are now part of the guest experience, allowing you to feel connected to history as you relax and unwind.
Modern Comforts Meet Historic Charm
What makes Schoolhouse No. 1 truly special is the way past and present converge:
- Enjoy your morning coffee on the private patio, imagining the students who once played on the grounds.
- Curl up in front of the wood-burning fireplace, the same space that once echoed with lessons and laughter.
- Explore the home’s nooks and historic details, from vintage memorabilia to the school bell, each whispering stories of the past.
Every stay is an opportunity to experience history firsthand, while enjoying the comforts of a fully modern home.
Experience Schoolhouse No. 1 Yourself
Whether you’re seeking a historic getaway, a cozy retreat, or a family-friendly vacation, Schoolhouse No. 1 offers an unforgettable experience. Nestled within walking distance of Tiverton Four Corners village, it combines historic character, modern luxury, and the charm of small-town Rhode Island.
Book your stay today and step into a story that spans centuries.
Visit our Airbnb site here or explore all our properties here.