East Farmington Schoolhouse Restoration Roofing Project in Montana

This Landmark and Historical structure built in 1898 by Norwegian immigrants restores the classic wood shake look. Learn more about this historic roof restoration project at the historic East Farmington School House in Farmington, Montana.

East Farmington Schoolhouse Restoration Project – Background

The East Farmington Schoolhouse was built in approximately 1898 in Farmington, Montana (near Choteau, Montana) by Norwegian immigrants. For awhile it doubled as a church and a schoolhouse for children. Many meetings, parties, events and gatherings were held in this unique historic building.

In 1947, the East Farmington Schoolhouse was moved 1 mile South to be closer to the farms with children, and to combine with another schoolhouse. The school was active into the late 1960’s when it was abandoned as a schoolhouse and then moved a 1/2 mile west to be used as a shop on a family farm.

Historical Landmark Restoration begins in 2017

In 2017 the historical restoration of the East Farmington Schoolhouse began. The foundation from 1947 was still intact so it was restored. The Montana Preservation Alliance and the Montana History Foundationwere involved with this project so that it could be done right and done safely. CEDUR Synthetic Roofing Products were chosen because it fit with the historical standards and had the look and texture of the original wood roof.

Windows were replicated by a carpenter with the National Parks Department, The owners set all the glass and did the glazing. Matching doors were found at nearby farms and the original stove was in a neighbors barn. The paint colors came from below many layers of paint and lots of scraping using linseed oil. Hardware and lights came from eBay, antique shops and Rejuvenation hardware.

This Historical East Farmington Schoolhouse is now being used for neighborhood gatherings and in the future it will be used for Weddings and smaller events.