The Friends Schoolhouse is moved from its original location on Quaker Ridge to Casco Village in 1971. Another move may be in the offing, to the Raymond-Casco Historical Society’s new museum site along Route 302.

Photo courtesy the RCHS

In November 1971, the Friends Schoolhouse was moved from its original location on Quaker Ridge to Casco Village. The Raymond-Casco Historical Society (RCHS) is now considering another move for the building, this time to the grounds of their new museum along Route 302 in Casco.

The idea of moving the schoolhouse surfaced last summer, after the RCHS established a museum and base of operations. At that time, it was suggested that moving the schoolhouse to the Society grounds would be safer for the building, as it’s been prone to minor vandalism in Casco Village and would be more accessible for visitors.

Friends Schoolhouse has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1996. For the building to be moved, the National Park Service requires it first be taken off the National Register and then will evaluate whether it meets the standards for re-listing to the National Register.

Opponents of the move are not only concerned with preserving the building’s federal status on the National Register, but cite age and location as other reasons not to move it. Built in 1849, the structure has already been moved several times since 1971 and its location in Casco Village make it an ideal site for the RCHS’ continued participation in Casco Days.

Discussion on moving the historic schoolhouse was tabled at the February meeting until May. Society members and the public are encouraged to attend the Monday, May 11 meeting at the museum at 7 p.m. to resume discussion on this topic. If you’re not able to attend, please e-mail your thoughts and suggestions on the proposed move to the RCHS at info@raymondcascohistory.org.

New members are always welcome to join the historical society. Annual dues are only $15 per individual or $20 for a whole family. For more information log on to www.raymondcascohistory.org

In November 1971, the Friends Schoolhouse was moved from its original location on Quaker Ridge to Casco Village. The Raymond-Casco Historical Society (RCHS) is now considering another move for the building, this time to the grounds of their new museum along Route 302 in Casco. The society will discuss the matter at meeting May 11.