Fairbanks' History

The original structure of Fairbanks Elementary School was built in 1910, and used for over fifty years before any additions were necessary to the building.

In the early 1950's, the need for an all-purpose room arose. In 1953, construction was complete on what is now the lunchroom, gym, and assembly hall.

As the Grant Beach Neighborhood increased in population the school then added additional classrooms in 1967, only a few years after the new all-purpose room was completed.

The newest additions include a complete library, that was finished in 1988, and computers and multimedia equipment in the library and classrooms.

In the spring of 2005, Fairbanks bid farewell to all with a Farewell Celebration and Carnival for students, families, staff, neighborhood friends and former students and staff.

This photograph is a gift to the school from Esther McGuire, a grand-niece of Mr. Fairbanks, who lived in the home while she attended Senior High School, now Central High School.

Jonathan Fairbanks, for whom Fairbanks School was named, served as Springfield's Superintendent of Schools. He is pictured standing beside his home on Central Street around the beginning of the 19th century. It was then known as Center Street which at one time marked the dividing line between North Springfield and "Old Town".

Mr. Fairbanks is reputed to have guided the schools with practicality and concern for the students and patrons during his tenure as Superintendent of the Springfield Schools from1875 to 1912.

When Graff Vocational Technical School was built, the Fairbanks home was first moved to Brower Street but was later demolished.

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