Sheridan fourth graders take in local history

Submitted by Sheridan Community Schools

Last week, Sheridan Elementary School fourth graders visited and toured the Boxley Cabin, Sheridan Library, and the Sheridan Historical Society Museum.

All three locations offer so much history to the foundation of Sheridan and surrounding areas. Boxley Cabin was built in 1828 by Virginia-born abolitionist George Boxley, who fled Spotsylvania County, Va., after allegedly starting a slave rebellion in the winter of 1816. Boxley escaped jail using a spring saw smuggled by his wife, Hannah. He vanished, heading north. But his life as a fugitive meant that he was chased relentlessly by bounty hunters for 12 years.

The Sheridan Library was completed in 1912, when, at the turn of the 20th century, Sheridan was the second-largest town in the county. In order to build the library, the town applied to Andrew Carnegie for funds.

The Sheridan Historical Society Museum offers an insight into the local history along with artifacts. On display are pioneer collections from early settlement days and the history of Sheridan and Adams Township, including a host bluegrass jam feature. There is also genealogy archives with research records tracking more than 500 area families, as well as local historical logs.

These students gained insight into the community’s history as they explored information about Sheridan athletics, the cabin’s origins, Veterans Park, and the benefits of the local library.