Council Bluff School: A Step Back in Time

Nestled near Valley Head, Alabama, the Council Bluff School provides a captivating journey into the past, showcasing the simplicity of rural education in the early 1900s. Built in 1903, this one-room schoolhouse was the center of the Sand Mountain community, educating local children when resources were limited and community bonds were strong. The land was donated by prominent community members, and local craftsman Sam Cordell helped with the construction. In 1924, Council Bluff School consolidated with Stamp, Central, and Hawkins Chapel to form a new school at High Point. However, in 1935, a delegation from Council Bluff petitioned to rescind the consolidation decision, but the school board decided to keep Council Bluff as part of the High Point consolidation. After its closure as an active school, the building transitioned into a cherished community space. Aileen Ott Hartzner and her brother Troy Ott organized sacred harp singings and school reunions, breathing new life into the building and ensuring its legacy lived on. Today, the Council Bluff School stands as a tangible link to a bygone era. It is listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Landmarks of DeKalb County is carefully restoring the school, having already installed a new roof. Visiting the Council Bluff School offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the values of community, education, and perseverance.