The Old Newton Academy was likely established circa 1802; however, the building may predate its 1802 use as a school. The school occupied the building until 1831. At this date the building was enlarged and used as a store. The full exterior of the building was ‘updated’ with Greek Revival details at the date of the addition. In addition to the store on the first floor, the Sussex Register newspaper occupied the second floor. The building was modified circa 1855 for a dentist office on one side and store use on the other side. At this date, Italianate details were added to the building. During the third quarter of the nineteenth century a two-story brick addition was added to the back of the frame building. In 1928 the clapboard sided front two portions of the building were covered with stucco. During the twentieth century, the building was used as apartments. The building has been vacant since the mid to late 1970s. Following failed attempts to have the building demolished, the property was given to the Historical Society in 2017. The building is a contributing resource to the New Jersey and National Register-listed Newton Town Plot Historic District.

The 2022 Trust grant will help fund partial exterior rehabilitation of the Old Newton Academy including roofing, gutters, and cornice work.

The 2018 Trust grant will help fund the preparation of a preservation plan and feasibility study.  

For more information, visit: http://www.newtonnj.net/Pages/schools.htm