In a remarkable leap of faith, a couple purchased an old schoolhouse in rural Indiana two years ago, sight unseen.
This bold decision was made despite the property being in a state of significant disrepair.
Built in 1914, the school has a rich history, having been repurposed multiple times over the years.
Its journey from an educational institution to a barn, and then to a residential property, reflects its adaptability and the ever-changing needs of the community.
Nestled in Franklin, Indiana, this historic building has now become the ambitious restoration project of Sean and his partner, who grew up and went to school together in this very town.
The old schoolhouse served its original purpose from 1914 to 1934, educating generations of children.
After it ceased to function as a school, it was transformed into a barn, housing various livestock from 1934 to 1956.
This agricultural phase of its life gave the building a unique character, blending rustic charm with its academic origins.
In 1956, it was converted into a residential property, divided into two apartments.
Despite these changes, the building retained its structural integrity, waiting for someone to recognize its potential and restore it to glory.
Sean and his partner moved to New York City in 2012, chasing their professional dreams.
Sean pursued medical school, while his partner landed a job at BarkBox, a pet-related company that later went public.
Despite their urban adventures, their hearts remained in Franklin.
When the opportunity to buy the old school arose, they saw it as a chance to reconnect with their roots and invest in their hometown.
With the help of Sean’s partner’s parents, who had experience in commercial real estate, they took the plunge and purchased the property.
The initial phase of their project involved a massive cleanout.
They had to remove non-original walls, dropped ceilings, and water-damaged materials to bring the building back to its original state.
This process started in the fall of 2021 and also included essential structural repairs.
By February 2022, they installed a new roof, ensuring the building was weatherproof and protected from further damage.
Each step of the process brought them closer to their vision of restoring the schoolhouse.
In August 2022, they ordered 65 windows and seven doors, which were delivered in March 2023.
This period was marked by meticulous planning and preparation, with each element carefully chosen to match the building’s historic character.
Meanwhile, in October 2022, the couple welcomed their daughter, Margot, adding a personal milestone to their restoration journey.
Despite the challenges, they remained committed to their project, balancing parenthood and construction.
Significant progress was made with the installation of waterproofing and a French drain around the foundation, preventing future water damage.
They began installing the new windows and started tuckpointing to seal the brickwork, preserving the building’s exterior.
The couple also created custom tile mosaics for the entrance and exit, adding a unique, artistic touch to their home.
Stripping and refinishing old doors sourced from various old buildings became another labor of love, blending history with modern functionality.
Plumbing and electrical work was ongoing and handled by trusted contractors who understood the importance of maintaining the building’s integrity.
Each task required careful consideration, ensuring that modern amenities did not compromise the historical essence of the schoolhouse.
The couple’s dedication to authenticity was evident in every decision they made, from material selection to the preservation techniques used.
The next steps in their project include finishing the window installations, adding insulation, and completing drywall work.
They also plan to install an HVAC system and refinish the floors.
Once these tasks are completed, they will begin the kitchen build-out, transforming the space into a functional and welcoming heart of their home.
Each phase of the project brings them closer to their dream of living in a beautifully restored historic building.
Sean and his partner’s journey to restore the old schoolhouse is proof of their love for their hometown and their appreciation for history.
Their efforts to preserve the building’s character while adapting it for modern living demonstrate a deep respect for the past and a commitment to creating a meaningful future.
As they continue their restoration work, they are not just rebuilding a structure but also reviving a piece of Franklin’s heritage, creating a unique home filled with history and new memories.
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