Bonser Run School
The exact date of the founding of Bonser Run school is unknown. The brick building shown in the photo below was used from the mid 1930's until 1968. The brick building was sold in June of 1970 for $8,700.
In 1928, the building was valued at $7,500.
The earliest newspaper record that could be found was an article in The Portsmouth Times, November 20, 1875, p. 2
We had quite an interesting time at the Bonser Run School house at a spelling match. After spelling for a short time we were granted a few moments intermission which we though we would improve by playing a game. After some of us turning a few somersaults, and others seeing stars with their eye shut, we re-entered the house, better prepared for the next match. After the house was again called to order, it was not long till we saw that the final contest would be between Miss Dora Chapman and Miss Bell Thompson. Miss Chapman came out victorious.
Article in The Portsmouth Times, December 22, 1915
Dear Santa: I am a girl eight years old. I go to school on Bonser Run. I am in the third grade. I would like for your to bring me lots of candy, oranges, nuts and bananas, and a sewing box. Good bye from Weltha Rider.
Dear Santa: I am a little girls seven years old. I to to school on Bonser Run. I am in the third grade. I would like for you to bring me a doll and some candy. Good bye from Mabel Welch.
Article in The Portsmouth Times, February 3, 1917
The following pupils of Bonser Run school, Harrison Township, were neither absent nor tardy during the month of January: Raymond Mitchell, James Griffy, Edwin Mitchell, Larr Mitchell, Thelma Mitchell, Lucy Jenkins, Elizabeth Shonkwiler. Elizabeth Elliott, Teacher
Article in The Portsmouth Times, November 19, 1931
Article in The Portsmouth Times, September 15, 1940
Article in The Portsmouth Times, November 16, 1941
Article in The Portsmouth Times, January 30, 1950
Article in The Portsmouth Times, March 15, 1957
Article in The Portsmouth Times, February 3, 1964
Article in The Portsmouth Times, November 2, 1965
Photo below: Dated in mid 1960's
Article in The Portsmouth Times, August 30, 1966
Article in The Portsmouth Times, August 21, 1967
Article in The Portsmouth Times, March 9, 1968
Lois Ruggles, 9 year-old third grader, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Don Ruggles, Sciotoville, Route 2, has been proclaimed Bonser Run spelling champion.
Article in The Portsmouth Times, April 23, 1968
Cheese and meats were taken in a break-in at Bonser Run school. Entry was gained by breaking a small pane of glass in a door.
Article in The Portsmouth Times, November 14, 1968
Article in The Portsmouth Times, September 15, 1970
Former teachers and principals:
Elma Burke Chandler - 1909
Elizabeth Elliott - 1910 to 1917
Charles L. Walden
Nelson Brown - 1932, 1933
Edna J. Martin
Anna Canters
Arthur Hossman
Wilma Gampp