First Kindergarten

The First Kindergarten is a 19th-century school building in Watertown with classrooms designed according to Friedrich Froebel's educational ideas. The rooms show typical features of that time with simple furniture and layouts that suited the needs of young learners.

Paulina Krause founded this educational institution in 1856, bringing the first formal kindergarten program based on German teaching methods to the United States. The concept spread quickly and changed how early childhood education was understood across the country.

The building shows how the community in the mid-1800s started to offer structured learning to children under six, which was brand new at the time. You can still see how the rooms were designed specifically for small children, with low furniture and space for play and exploration.

The building can be visited and offers guided tours that explain how preschool education developed over time. It is helpful to check ahead when tours are available so you can get the most from your visit.

The building received National Register of Historic Places designation in 1978, marking a turning point in American education history. This recognition honors how a single location changed the way millions of children were taught.

Location: Watertown

GPS coordinates: 43.18457,-88.70708

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:59