Indian Rock Schoolhouse newsletter

AMENIA — Seasons greetings from Indian Rock Schoolhouse. Our theme for this year’s picnic was “Games for Kids.” Vendors were encouraged to include an activty for children in their displays if possible. The children enjoyed face-painting, games, animals and one of the most popular: harvesting potatoes! 

Bank of Millbrook, Elmedorph Hand-spinners and many other booths also included activities. Since Indian Rock emphasizes fun and learning for school children and adults, the 2015 picnic will expand the fun by giving children punch cards so they can find all the games planned for them and make sure they have a chance to participate for free. (There may be a small charge  for  adults.)

Next year’s picnic is Saturday, Sept. 19.

Back in the days of the horse and carriage, when there were no electric lights, and when many families had no indoor plumbing and heated with wood, any holiday celebrations and gifts were modest. Many presents were homemade, as were the decorations and refreshments. At school, the holiday party was held in the classroom, and parents brought homemade treats. In the spring, the entire one-room school had its picnic in the teacher’s yard or at a nearby park. Food and games were plain but much anticipated.

These are the memories of our parents, grandparents and our community.

Events at the Indian Rock Schoolhouse 2015

(For more information go to www.IndianRockSchool.org.)

• Picnic and Community Day, Saturday, Sept. 19, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Saturday, May 2, bake sale from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Freshtown Plaza 

• Saturday, June 6, Strawberry Fair picnic, raffle tickets available for the first time. Drawing Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at United Presbyterian Church in Amenia.

• Sunday, July 19, pancake breakfast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  at Indian Rock. 

• Sunday, Aug. 2, Ice Cream Social and Annual Meeting from 1 to 3 p.m., at Indian Rock.

• April, May and June
Historic School Days. Elementary children experience
school and life as it was lived in
the 1850s. 

Indian Rock

What’s the real Indian Rock? And where is it?
The boulder on the left  of the Schoolhouse is called “Indian Rock” at the 1858 structure, but it is not the real “Indian Rock.” These three rocks were donated by Maplebrook School when playing fields were constructed on the campus adjoining the schoolyard. The one on the left was chosen for the Indian Rock garden near the pavilion.

Another, much larger giant rock, located on the ridge to the east, is said to have been used by local native Americans  to  spot deer. Called “Indian Rock” by farmers of the area, the boulder is so large that most of it is hidden underground. The land, long ago grazing pasture, part of the Benham farm, now belongs to
the Babcock family. Their sign and mailbox tell a part of the history of Indian Rock.

Contributions to the schoolhouse are tax deductible. Indian Rock Schoolhouse is a 501(c)3 organization. Make checks payable to Webutuck Country School Association (WCSA). Return payment and membership form to: Indian Rock Schoolhouse, P.O. Box 172, Amenia, N.Y. 12501.

For a membership form and to learn more go to www.indanrockschool.org and click on membership at the top of the page.