Old West Haven High School

Old West Haven High School is a two-story H-shaped building constructed with brick and terra cotta load-bearing walls, featuring projecting wings at both ends and a central pavilion. The center entrance displays Egyptian Revival capitals topped by a pedimented gable, creating a distinctive neoclassical facade.

The school building was constructed in 1926 during a period of rapid growth in West Haven and served educational purposes for several decades. Its closure came in 1983 when the community shifted its schooling arrangements to other locations.

The building shaped West Haven's landscape as a central community institution where generations came together for learning and social connection. It reflects how schools once anchored neighborhood identity and collective pride.

The building sits two blocks east of West Haven town green along Main Street, making it easy to find and reach on foot. Since it functions as a residential complex today, the exterior is best viewed from the street while respecting the privacy of current residents.

The Egyptian Revival elements adorning the center entrance were an unusual design choice for a school building in Connecticut during the 1920s. This fusion of exotic architectural styling with a straightforward educational building remains striking and unexpected.

Location: West Haven

Inception: 1926

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Address: 278 Main Street

GPS coordinates: 41.33000,-72.95306

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:07