Near the intersection of 

County Rd 1100E and 2600th St. (aka-  Co.Highway 20)

Emden, IL 62635

In this day and age it is not common to see a school in the middle of a country, surrounded by open fields. Back in the mid-19th Century though this school would have been close to the prairie families. This one room schoolhouse educated the children of Bethel (Emden) School district from 1862-1948. The schoolhouse was restored by the Emden Historical Society with final restorations of siding and windows finishing in 2018.

The school was 1st through 8th grade in one room together. There was no electicity or plumbing back then and the original water pump and cinderblock outhouses are still on display outside the school. Many original parts of the building and items inside are original, including the desks and chalkboard. 

Also, just down the road from the school is also the Bethel Church and Cemetery.

To schedule a tour contact (217) 376-3859