Old School

Built in 1865.

It is Southern California’s first publicly owned schoolhouse.

Mason Street School is located in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

The brochure tells the story of Miss Walker, a New England teacher, who came out west to try her luck and accepted the teaching post in San Diego for $65 a month.

She taught for 11 months. Resigned. Then married the president of the school board.

Before you judge...

The hours were 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. School was in session for 12 months of the year. All eight grades were taught in one room and the students ranged from 4 to 17 years of age.

It was probably the longest 11 months of her teaching career.

Today the school/museum is open to the public and maintained by volunteers.

This group was listening to a description of corporal punishment.

To get there, look for this sign on the main walking path.

A quick diversion.

A little history.

And still plenty of time for mariachi bands, homemade tortillas and icy cold margaritas - the main draw for Old Town!