Sollman School
4214 IN-168, Fort Branch
Community Education
At one time, hundreds of country schoolhouses dotted the Indiana landscape. Today, they are a rarity, which makes efforts to save one such landmark in Gibson County even more important.
A repeat entry on this year’s list, the Sollman School in Snake Run was built c.1875, a modest white frame building with simple classical details and belltower. Beyond serving as the local school, the building also functioned as a venue for events and civic gatherings for the surrounding community.
The school’s tenure ended in 1927 when Sollman consolidated with the nearby Fort Branch system. Local families continued to use the site as a woodshop, but decades later the former school now stands vacant.
Picturesque even in decay, the landmark continues to be a favorite in the community. Since the school first appeared on the 10 Most Endangered list, county officials have identified a plan to move the building to Hopkins Family Park in nearby Francisco, Indiana, and restore it as field trip destination. But in a rural community with limited resources, funding the project continues to be a significant challenge.
Stephanie Richard
Director
Indiana Landmarks Southwest Field Office
812-423-2988
srichard@indianalandmarks.org
Eric Heidenreich
Executive Director
Gibson County Visitors and Tourism
812-385-0075
eric@gibsoncountyin.org
Saving threatened buildings takes teamwork. You can be a part of that team. Reach out to local leaders. Let them know these buildings are important to you. And support state and local preservation groups.