For the purpose of building a school, Samuel and Rebecca Collins deeded 1.28 acres of land to Beavercreek Township in 1854. Two brick school houses were built with stone, including fireplaces for heat. Until decreased enrollment forced the school to close in 1944, children were educated from first through eighth grade in the red brick building still standing today.

Thirty eight years later, Helen Bryson Brantley (great granddaughter to Samuel and Rebecca Collins) and her husband Virgil purchased the property to restore the schoolhouse, which had deteriorated and been vandalized. They rebuilt the pony sheds and privies on their foundations. Collins School was rededicated on August 30, 1986.

Two teachers were enlisted to research and organize a curriculum. Later that fall, students were invited to attend to experience a day of the 3 Rs; “readin’ ritin’ and rithmetic’” as it would have been experienced during the schools operating days. Today, roughly 2,400 students and adults experience Collins School each year. They learn citizenship, read from McGuffey Readers, practice writing on slates, and play period appropriate games in the school yard. Collins School is located in Xenia at 2804 West Enon Road.

Fun Fact: Sara and Bethany both went on field trips to Collins School when they were in elementary school!