Restoring the past for a brighter future.

In 1895, new Florida state legislation passed that allowed the Jackson County School Board to authorize the building of a wooden schoolhouse on a half-acre of land donated by William “Billy” Bevis. Classes were held in this building until 1925 when a fire destroyed it.

In 1927, the School Board purchased four acres from the Woodmen of The World Campground Number 68 for the construction of the red brick school building that stands today. It was built in the classic 1920s era design and embodies many of the architectural characteristics of Florida’s Founding and Early Development Period (1890-1929). This building contains notable architectural features such as a gable roof, two front-facing gable extensions, and an offset entrance and porch. Beautiful large multi-pane windows accent the building and provide it with outstanding natural light.

The school featured four classrooms and an auditorium complete with stage. In 1942, the southeast classroom was converted into a lunchroom. Classes were held at this brick building until the school’s closure in 1963. From 1963 until 2001, the building was used as the Town Hall.

In 2009 a group of former students and concerned townspeople saved the building from destruction which was proposed to clear way for a walking track to adjoin the park that was built in close proximity. The project to save Bascom School began in 2009 and is still in swing today. COUNTLESS fundraisers and hours went into the restoration of the School house and we cannot wait for you to enjoy the new amenities with the sense of rich history all around. The Bascom School House is now set to serve as a focal point for social, cultural, and educational activities. We hope you will consider this unique venue for your needs.

William (NMI) Bevis “Uncle Billy”

Born: December 24, 1818

Died: February 4, 1907 (Age 89

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Saving a Historic Gem

The Beginning…what we found

Fundraising…making it happen

Planning…a vision and a dream

Construction…and away we go

Our Vision…today a reality