Lithgow Public School Celebrates a Legacy of Learning
Lithgow Public School is celebrating 150 years of public education with a special open day, offering the community a chance to reflect on its long history and the generations of students who have passed through its doors.
The event will feature historical displays, school tours, and the unveiling of the restored Old School Bell, a significant piece of the school’s heritage.
Established in 1875 as Eskbank School, the institution played a crucial role in educating the children of miners, ironworkers, and shopkeepers who helped shape Lithgow into a thriving industrial town. Thomas Brown, a prominent local businessman and owner of Eskbank House, was instrumental in the school’s early development, donating land for its first permanent building. The foundation stone for that building was laid in 1878, marking the start of a more formalised education system in the region. In 1895, the school changed its name to Lithgow Public School, aligning with the town’s identity and cementing its place in the local community.
The school has seen significant changes over the decades, evolving to meet the needs of an expanding population. The original schoolhouse, built in a traditional Gothic style, was replaced in 1909 to accommodate more students. Additional buildings were constructed in the late 1920s, reflecting the growth of Lithgow and the increasing demand for education. Today, the school has more than 325 students and continues to serve as an essential part of the community, providing education for new generations while maintaining strong connections to its past.
A key feature of this weekend’s celebrations is the unveiling of the restored Old School Bell, a symbol of the school’s enduring legacy. Bells were once a central part of school life, marking the start and end of lessons and acting as a familiar sound for students and teachers alike. The restoration effort ensures that this historic artefact will remain part of the school for years to come, preserving a tangible link to its past.
The event also provides an opportunity for alumni, staff, and the wider community to reconnect with the school and share memories of their time there. With photo displays and a chance to walk through the school’s historic buildings, the anniversary serves as both a commemoration of the past and a celebration of the present.
The milestone highlights the school’s role in Lithgow’s history, not just as an educational institution but as a cornerstone of the community. The recognition of 150 years of public education is a tribute to the teachers, students, and families who have contributed to the school’s success. As Lithgow Public School moves into the future, it carries with it a rich legacy built over generations, continuing to shape the lives of those who walk through its doors.
The celebration starts at 10am this Saturday 15 March.
Pictured: Staff and students have been getting into the theme for the upcoming clebration. Image Supplied.
