Crossroads and Characters

21. THE BIG SCHOOL.

After youngsters had attended their first classes at the Infant or Wee School, they went to the Big School, the present one built on Station Road in 1867 by the Parish. Education was still church-run at this time and the earlier grammar school was located in what is now the churchyard of St. Serf's: on old maps the wee road opposite the Kirk Style hotel is called School Wynd. Wilson's History describes that grammar school 'with its low ceiling and its wooden pillars for the boobies to lean against'. In 1872, education and the new school became a ratepayers' responsibility. In 1878 the public board decided to bring all older pupils here, hiring a certificated teacher. Seen here with a class of the 1890's is that teacher, James Cusine. He was hired for 170 pounds a year plus house and garden, and he taught 21 years at the Big School.