Historic Patrick Hughes House

School District #15 - Cape Blanco University

The small school on the headland was constructed in 1881, and used until about 1896. According to Patrick Masterson, descendent of Patrick Hughes, the school served children of the ranch, lighthouse, Sullivan Mines and other local children. With records lost to time, it isn't clear who the children were, or how many children were served.

Teachers were paid $35 to $50 per month, plus room and board. School sessions were 3-4 months in length, weather permitting. Apparently the school budget was rarely more than $170 per year. According to Masterson's notations on the State of Oregon Historic Properties page on the school, a teacher was asked about the ventilation, and answered "... more than adequate.!" Life on the cape was (as it still is today) quite windy. Masterson also notes the children affectionately named the school "Cape Blanco University".

Teachers at Cape Blanco School:
1889 - Mr. or Mrs. J. J. Stanley - They signed the guest book at Cape Blanco Lighthouse 9/29/1935.

If you know someone who was a teacher at this tiny school, please contact us! blancokeeper @ yahoo.com