Also Known As: The Birthplace of the Republican Party.

Named For: Its original use and the fact that the meeting in Ripon in 1853 to form the Republican Party was held there.

Location: On the corner of Seward and Elm (present site of Harwood Union) between 1908 and 1940. It was temporarily moved to a site next to Bartlett Hall in 1929, where it became the backdrop for a speakers platform during the 75th anniversary celebration of the birth of the Republican Party. In 1940, it was moved up the hill and placed next to West Hall (close to Elm Street). It stood empty from then until the 1950s when it was moved (for the sixth time) and placed on its present site at 303 Blackburn Street, in front of the Republican House Restaurant.

Built: 1863.

Former Uses: Between 1863 and 1860, it was used as a schoolhouse. After its removal to the corner of E. Fond du Lac and Houston Streets, it became a residence (1860-1908). While on the Ripon College campus, it was a museum for the science departments.

Present Uses: The Ripon Area Chamber of Commerce owns and maintains the schoolhouse as an historical site. Tours are available.

References: Pedrick, S.M. and George Miller, History of Ripon.