NSGW Historical Preservation Foundation Grant Transforms Fiddletown Schoolhouse

Two years after a pivotal grant from the Native Sons of the Golden West Historical Preservation Foundation (NSGW HPF), the historic one-room schoolhouse in Fiddletown stands safer, stronger, and more welcoming than it has in decades.

In August 2023, the NSGW HPF awarded funding to support a series of essential safety and preservation upgrades at the site. The project included constructing a structurally sound new walkway, rebuilding the front steps, and installing skirting boards beneath the porch to protect the foundation and preserve the building’s original aesthetic. New lighting and signage were also added to improve visibility and visitor engagement.

“We’re proud to support community-led efforts like this one,” said a representative from Native Sons of the Golden West HPF. “Preserving California’s historic structures helps us maintain our shared heritage while ensuring that future generations can experience it firsthand.”

Originally built in the 1860s, the Fiddletown Schoolhouse served local students well into the 20th century and remains a treasured community symbol. The recent upgrades ensure it can continue to host educational tours, community events, and historical exhibitions safely and accessibly.

Local residents have welcomed the transformation. “This building has always been part of our town’s soul,” said a Fiddletown community member. “Thanks to the Native Sons, it’s now a place we can gather and share our history with pride.”

The project was a collaborative effort between local volunteers, the Amador County Historical Society, and preservation professionals, demonstrating the power of partnership in preserving California’s past. The visible improvements have reignited community interest, with several new events already scheduled at the site this fall.

As the Native Sons of the Golden West approaches 150 years of service, its commitment to safeguarding California’s heritage continues to evolve. Today, its members reflect the breadth of the state itself—united not by background, but by a shared passion for protecting the places and stories that define the Golden State. Through strategic partnerships, volunteer engagement, and philanthropic support, NSGW is connecting communities with their past and paving the way for a more informed and inclusive future.

The organization welcomes all who believe in honoring history and uplifting the community to join in its mission of remembrance, restoration, and resilience.

For more information on the Native Sons of the Golden West or to support future preservation efforts, visit www.nsgw.org.