Brentwood
Union Free School District
Modern Times, but Now
Built in 1857, the octagonal Modern Times Schoolhouse was originally part of the utopian Modern Times settlement in what is now Brentwood. It served as a school until 1907 before becoming a private residence. Donated to the Brentwood Union Free School District in 1989, the building was relocated and later restored through the efforts of the Brentwood Historical Society.
Today, the schoolhouse is a museum and educational resource where students and visitors can learn about the history of the Modern Times community and early education in Brentwood. It is proudly listed on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
Step Back in Time at the Modern Times Schoolhouse
We are excited to invite Brentwood families, alumni, community members, and local history enthusiasts to visit our beautifully restored Modern Times Schoolhouse!
This one-room schoolhouse, built in 1857, stands as a remarkable reminder of Brentwood's unique beginnings as the utopian community of Modern Times. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to explore this historic landmark, learn about the innovative settlers who founded our community, and discover how their vision helped shape the Brentwood we know today.
Visitors will experience:
- The historic octagonal schoolhouse
- Interactive exhibits and artifacts
- A teacher hologram presentation
- Historic photographs and displays
- The story of Modern Times and its lasting impact on Brentwood
- Opportunities for photos and family exploration
Whether you are a longtime resident, a Brentwood graduate, a current family, or simply interested in local history, we would love to welcome you.
How to Sign Up:
To express interest in attending a future community tour, please complete the form below and indicate your availability.
Complete the Community Interest Form
We look forward to sharing this treasured piece of Brentwood history with you and celebrating the spirit of community that continues to define Brentwood today.
Modern Times News
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Brentwood’s oldest schoolhouse officially reopened on Oct. 10, completing a decades-long restoration that preserves a unique piece of the community’s history.
![A group of people, mostly young, standing in front of a large yellow building with a distinctive arched window, surrounded by trees and a grassy area.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1776696296/brentwoodk12nyus/kwmgkjbyypql6baa9sbm/04-14_Schoolhouse-Trip_5.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1776696296/brentwoodk12nyus/kwmgkjbyypql6baa9sbm/04-14_Schoolhouse-Trip_5.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1776696296/brentwoodk12nyus/kwmgkjbyypql6baa9sbm/04-14_Schoolhouse-Trip_5.jpg","width":800}])
Students from Southwest Elementary School in Brentwood went back in time as they were the first to visit the district’s historic schoolhouse following a lengthy restoration during a field trip April 14.