Bengal School – Bengal

Current Usage:

Description:

A three room building, the Bengal school is a single story, L-shaped (110′ x 26′, with 8′ x 24′ extension) structure constructed of undressed and uncoursed native stone. Now covered with composition shingles, the intersecting gable roof with valley is also stepped. Doors are recessed behind archways, with the one at the interior angle fashioned into a porch. Wood sash classroom windows resting on concrete sills extend to the eaves. Rock selection is especially colorful.
Significantly, construction of the school building provided work opportunities for impoverished laborers in the Bengal area who avoided starvation for themselves and family with their WPA wages. The new building also stimulated an enthusiasm for learning and pride in community that is still apparent in the maintenance of the building. Architecturally the building is unique in the community because of its type, style, scale, materials and workmanship. As a WPA structure it is notable for its colorful rock work.

VERBAL BOUNDARY DESCRIPTION: Bengal is situated midway on state highway No. 82 between Talihina and Red Oak. The school site is just west of the intersection of the state highway and a county road from the west. The property is described as 208 square foot tract of land in the NW corner of the W 1/2 portion of the NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Sec. 11, T 4 N, R 21 E.

Sources:

1. Oklahoma Landmarks Inventory Nomination

Supported Documents:

1. WPA Properties Latimer County – Bengal School

Photos:

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