Florham Park Historic Preservation Commission

Little Red Schoolhouse

203 Ridgedale Avenue
Florham Park, New Jersey 07932

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The Little Red Schoolhouse was completed in 1867 as a one-room schoolhouse for students in grades 1 through 8. Originally known as Columbia School District No. 5 Schoolhouse, it is a vernacular Italianate one-story narrow red brick masonry building with a steep roof and tall 9/9 windows topped with gentle arches. In 1905, it was expanded from four bays to the current six. The open belfry at the front peak with working bell and the gable-end entrance make it instantly identifiable as a typical 19th century one-room schoolhouse.

The building is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Its location at the historic crossroads of Florham Park has remained a key reminder of the borough’s rural origins. The classic schoolhouse form is the borough's icon, appearing on the town flag, letter head, website, and public works and first responder vehicles.

In 1978, the schoolhouse was moved approximately 50 feet back from the road to accommodate the expansion of Columbia Turnpike. Currently a museum occupies the first floor and exhibits the area's farming and agricultural heritage, and the development into a thriving suburb after World War II. Ground floor museum is ADA accessible (but basement restrooms are not).

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