This historic landmark was designed by Henry Vaughan (1845-1917), an English-born and trained architect. This building is one of many notable commissions designed by Vaughan for millionaire Edward F. Searles (1841-1920). Designed in the Gothic Revival style, it served as a schoolhouse until the early 1970s. The building was threatened with demolition but was restored through the efforts of the Bicentennial Commission. The Windham Historic Commission continued restoration efforts and in 1982, Searles School & Chapel was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

 

Searles School & Chapel serves as a great example of re-purposing a landmark municipal building, as it served as a town elementary school and was later used by Windham Cooperative Kindergarten. Currently, this historical building continues to retain its character while generating revenue through its use by hosting private events as well as a venue for many non-profit local community organizations.