Larrabee School

Gaze in admiration at the only school in Iowa completely donated to a community by a family. Believing children of Clermont were entitled to the best education to be had, both Governor and Mrs. Larrabee studied school buildings for over 15 years prior to constructing the “IDEAL SCHOOL” in 1913. The structure is a two-story Neoclassical building that features a classical portico, brick pilasters with Doric Capitals and two arched dormers on the hipped roof. The only wood used in its construction are the outside window frames and the stage floor in the auditorium. The groundbreaking for the building was in May of 1912. The School housed all grades from 1913-1924 and served as an elementary school from 1924 to 1990. The building was then acquired by the City of Clermont for use as a public library and City Hall. The Larrabee School (Clermont Public School) was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. Today, the structure houses the Clermont Historical Society Museum and public library. Museum tours are available by calling 563-423-5561.