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CALVIN TOWNSHIP — Brownsville School No. 1 stands safe and secure under a new roof and re-tooled floor thanks to the community’s efforts.

Private donations and proceeds from the Raise the Roof Yard Sale enabled Underground Railroad Society of Cass County to complete these crucial pieces of preservation work that complement the foundation work completed last July, 2024.

URSCC will begin restoration work on the windows and the bell tower as funds become available – $20,000 will spirit the two phases of preservation to completion and finish the project.  Brownsville School will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. during Underground Railroad Days – July 12 and 13 – with photographs and information about Brownsville and Cass County’s many integrated, one-room public schools on display.

Evidence supports c.1840 Brownsville No. 1 being the first and longest-integrated public school in Michigan, perhaps in the country; a legacy of the Underground Railroad in southwest Michigan.  URSCC extends sincere appreciation to donors who have made Brownsville’s preservation work to date possible. Donations for final phases may be made at  friendsofbrownsvilleschool.org or mail URSCC PO Box 124, Vandalia, MI 49095.