The Susanville School District, technically is the oldest, since it was established in 1863, before Lassen County was created in 1864. The first school was located on Cottage Street, and the site it still used for educational purposes. However, I have heard that the property might be for sale in the not so distant future.
In 1873, a new school house was built to replace the existing one. Time and an increased of school age population had taken its toll on the structure. Eight years later an addition was made.
By early 1899, the Susanville School District agreed to go the voters for a bond measure to replace the current school building. Some stated the building was an actual disgrace to the community. Another opinion voiced “It was poorly constructed, old, dingy and dilapidated, there is no longer any possible justification for its continued use. On June 2, 1899, the voters of approved the $12,500 bond measure to build a new two-story brick schoolhouse by a vote of 84 to 19.
One would think with the bonds past, it would be all systems to go. The State required that the school district to hold a special meeting as to a future school site. Several meetings were held. When the trustees next meeting it was to be vote on, but there was no quorum. It was not until late December when the issue was settled. It was decided to build on the current site. The school grounds would have to be enlarged and the trustees voted to purchase the adjoining vacat lot. In March 1900, that the contract to build the new school was awarded to Reno contractor, C.E. Clough. In 1948, that building was condemned