Hamilton Primary School - Otterville, Illinois

Hamilton Primary School

107 East Main Street
Otterville, Illinois 62052

N 39° 03.055 W 090° 23.841

National Register Information System ID: 98000975

History of Hamilton Primary School – Otterville, Illinois

Beginnings: A Bold Vision (1830s)
Dr. Silas Hamilton, a Vermont-born physician, arrived in Otterville (then Gullum) in 1830. He brought with him George Washington—an enslaved boy whom he had purchased and later freed. Seeking to demonstrate compassionate treatment and education, Dr. Hamilton emancipated 28 enslaved individuals, though George chose to remain with him. Upon Dr. Hamilton’s passing in 1834, he left $4,000 in his will to build a free school and church, open to all children regardless of race or denomination. In 1835, the original stone schoolhouse was completed, becoming the nation’s first free and integrated schools. George Washington: Student, Benefactor, Friend George Washington, once enslaved and later a student of the school, became a well-respected member of the Otterville community. He served as a farmer, church member, janitor, choir leader, and Sunday School teacher. George was the first black man to own property in the state of Illinois. In 1864, George left $1,500 in his will to erect a marble monument honoring Dr. Hamilton and provide for the education of African-American students. The monument is the only known monument erected by a former slave for a former master. He was laid to rest in a crypt beside Dr. Hamilton and Gilbert Douglas, symbolizing a profound respect across racial lines. This is the only known site where a former master and former slave are buried side-by-side.

Rebuilding & Endurance (1870s–1971)
By 1872, the original school building was razed. In 1873, a new Italianate-style schoolhouse was constructed, using limestone from the original structure. This building featured a cupola, arched windows with decorative hoods, and wide eaves with brackets. The school continued serving the community until 1971, when it was closed due to declining enrollment.

Preservation & Legacy
In 1982, the Otter Creek Historical Society took stewardship of the school, converting it into a museum. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 6, 1998. Efforts to restore and maintain the building have been ongoing, supported by local advocates and endowment funding. In 2014, Landmarks Illinois listed it among the ten most endangered historic places in the state.
A Living Monument to change Hamilton Primary School today is a symbol of progressive education, racial justice, and community unity. The annual September festival offers guided tours and historical programs. Inside the school, original classroom furnishings and period artifacts remain.

Why It Matters
Hamilton Primary School was extraordinary for being tuition-free and integrated decades before such practices were common. The bond between Dr. Hamilton and George Washington—teacher and student, former master and formerly enslaved—embodies humanity transcending societal norms. Its Italianate architecture and continued community use serve as a lasting tribute to its pioneering spirit.

Plan Your Visit
Tours are available during the last weekend of September and by appointment. The school is located at 107 E. Main Street, Otterville, IL 62052. Special events include reenactments, educational programs, and school group visits.

ADDITIONAL CONTACT INFO

Updated 07-18-2025