Central Elementary School, listed on the NRHP in Craven County, North Carolina
Central Elementary School is a primary school building in New Bern consisting of two historic brick structures that have educated children for generations. The older building dates to around 1806 and features two stories, a gently sloped roof with two chimneys, and a front porch supported by four Tuscan columns with a small dome above the entrance. A second building was constructed in 1884 nearby; today the older structure operates as a museum while the newer one has been converted into residences.
The school was established around 1806 as one of New Bern's earliest educational buildings, reflecting the town's commitment to learning during its early growth. A second structure was added in 1884 to accommodate expanding enrollment, with both buildings serving as active schools until the early 1970s before their purposes shifted.
The school's name reflects its role as an educational hub for New Bern's families over many generations. Locals often recall attending classes here as children, and the building remains a symbol of the community's long-standing commitment to teaching young people.
The site spans about 7 acres surrounded by trees, creating a quiet space for exploration and reflection. The older building operates as a museum open to visitors interested in viewing the architecture and learning about early school life, with walking paths and benches available for comfortable outdoor visits.
The older building now houses a museum instead of an active school, making the historic classrooms and teaching spaces accessible to visitors curious about early educational methods. This allows people to experience what teaching and learning looked like in previous centuries.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
