Georgia school that began with $5K

While the public school system began in the late 1700s, not everyone had access to education. Peter Massie was a Scottish planter from Glynn County; he recognized the need “for the education of the poor children of Savannah” and donated $5,000 toward a school. Even in 1841, this was not enough money, so the donation was invested.

Fourteen years later, the city built Massie School. The original structure was constructed in 1855 and cost $9,000. The west and east wings were added in 1872 and 1886 respectively. The building served multiple purposes over the years before closing to students in 1974.

– Rebecca Hastings, The 100 Companies