The Harrington School on St. Simons Island

Discover one of the most important landmarks in the story of African American heritage on St. Simons Island. The Harrington School, the last remaining African American schoolhouse on the island, serves as a powerful symbol of the community's history and the enduring legacy of the Gullah/Geechee people. Today, the restored school provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about local African American history, cultural preservation efforts and the island's educational heritage.

Plan a Harrington School Heritage Tour and experience firsthand the stories that shaped St. Simons Island. Visitors are also encouraged to learn about upcoming Gullah/Geechee events and educational programs offered throughout the year.

History of the Harrington School

Originally serving as the Harrington Grade School from the 1920s until desegregation in the 1960s, the Harrington School educated generations of African American children on St. Simons Island. Following desegregation, the building was converted into a daycare facility and continued serving the community through the 1970s.

In 2004, Glynn County and the St. Simons Land Trust acquired approximately 12 acres known as the Harrington Tract through the Georgia Greenspace program. The property includes the 1.7-acre parcel containing the historic schoolhouse. Since its acquisition, the site has been protected for public use and preservation.

The St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition, in partnership with the St. Simons Land Trust, led fundraising, restoration planning and management efforts to save the school. Restoration work began in 2010 and was completed at a cost of approximately $325,000. The Harrington School officially reopened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in August 2017.

[Sources: The Georgia Trust; The Society for Georgia Archeology - Rawson Gordon]

Visitors interested in learning more about the island's past can also explore related resources on African American History, Historic Sites, St. Simons Island History and Museums & History throughout the Golden Isles.

Location

The Harrington School is located on South Harrington Road near Bennie's Red Barn on St. Simons Island, Georgia.

Address:
South Harrington Road
St. Simons Island, GA 31522

Tours

The Harrington School offers a unique opportunity to explore the history, culture and contributions of the Gullah/Geechee community on St. Simons Island. Heritage tours and educational programs provide insight into the school's role in local history and ongoing preservation efforts.

Interested visitors should contact the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition for current tour schedules, special programs and event information.

Visitor Information

Whether you're researching local history, exploring cultural attractions or planning a heritage-focused itinerary, the Harrington School is an essential stop for understanding the African American experience on St. Simons Island.

Pair your visit with nearby historic attractions and museums to gain a deeper appreciation for the people, places and stories that have shaped the Golden Isles.

Contact the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition

To learn about upcoming events, educational programs, volunteer opportunities or restoration updates, or to book a heritage tour, contact the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition at 912-634-0330 or www.ssiheritagecoalition.org