glow.png)
This Is Our Story. Let’s Preserve It Together.
For more than a century, the Oneida Stake Academy has stood as a proud symbol of faith, education, and perseverance. It’s where memories were made, values were taught, and futures began. Help us restore it — not just for history’s sake, but for our children, our neighbors, and our community.
If These Walls Could Talk...
If these walls could talk, they’d tell stories of pioneers, of students eager to learn, of families coming together.
The Oneida Stake Academy holds a century of memories — and we believe its best chapter is yet to come.
Join us as we preserve this sacred piece of our history and transform it into a place where new stories will be written.
A Monumental Move: Preserving a Legacy
In December 2003, the Oneida Stake Academy faced demolition to make way for school expansion. Determined to save this historic landmark, the community orchestrated an extraordinary feat: relocating the entire 1,650-ton stone building to Benson Park. The structure was carefully moved down three city blocks using 41 hydraulic dollies, each with eight wheels, totaling 328 wheels in motion
Necia Seamons, of the Oneida Stake Academy Foundation, captured the community's emotions:
"Amazement, wonderment, gratefulness, giddiness... We're just thrilled. We've got some people who are in tears telling me how thankful they are."
This monumental effort wasn't just about moving a building; it was about preserving a piece of our shared heritage. The successful relocation stands as a testament to the community's dedication to honoring the past while building for the future.
Discover the History
Academy memories
At a time when civilization was still being carved out of the Wild West, local residents sacrificed to build this school in order to inspire culture and excellence in their children. It worked. World, national and local leaders, as well as simply good people, honed their skills within the walls of the Oneida Stake Academy.
Over 550 photos and 135 years of history and fun memories of those people fill the pages of "Academy Memories." Discover their stories and help us raise funds for the building's restoration as Cultural Center/Museum of Local History.
Our Vision
At the heart of our mission is a belief that every donation makes a difference. The Oneida Stake Academy Restoration is more than a historical renovation—it’s a vision to strengthen our community by honoring the past and building a space for the future.
A Center for Community, Culture, and Connection
We envision the restored Oneida Stake Academy as a vibrant Community & Welcome Center—a place where residents and visitors alike can gather, learn, and celebrate. Situated along the Pioneer Historic Byway and listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, the Academy is perfectly positioned to serve as a hub for tourism, public events, and local engagement.
Once restored and updated for modern use, the building will provide space for public meetings, business use, cultural programs, and entertainment throughout the year. A beautifully restored ballroom will host weddings, banquets, and small conventions, making it a landmark of celebration and community pride.
Preserving and Sharing Our History
Originally built as a center of education, the Academy will continue that legacy by housing a museum dedicated to the rich heritage of Franklin County. Exhibits will explore local and regional history, including stories of Latter-day Saint pioneers, Native American communities, and the broader themes of the American West. Through these displays, the Academy will become not only a destination for visitors, but a source of learning and pride for generations to come.
Building the Future—With Your Help
To bring this vision to life, we are seeking support without relying on local tax dollars. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all contributions to the project are tax-deductible. With the help of individuals, families, and businesses both near and far, we can restore the Oneida Stake Academy and ensure it remains a cornerstone of our community’s identity and future.
Together, we can connect the past to the present—and create a lasting legacy for the future.
Our Board of Directors
The Oneida Stake Academy stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of past generations. Our Board of Directors carries that legacy forward, bringing together professionals with a shared commitment to restoring and revitalizing this historic building. Each member plays a vital role in ensuring the Academy’s transformation into a community center that honors the past while serving the needs of the future
_edited.jpg)
.jpg)
Legacy Members Advisors and, Consultants
Former Board Members
Doug West
Joseph Linton
Elliott Larsen
Don Hampton
Leo Geddes
Kim Wilson
Nathan Hale
Sydney Hale
Jay McKenzie
Lyle Fuller
Sema Jeffers
DeVerl Baxter
Ed Moser
James Brown
Larry Bradford
Saundra Hubbard
Paul Judd
Dan Oswald
Shawn Oliverson
Cindy Harris
Doug Day
Helen Smith
Friends of the Academy 1970-1980
Newell Hart
Ruth Hart
Stanton Hawkes
Virginia Hawkes
DeWain “Duke” Robinson
LaRue Robinson
Elaine Lloyd Sorenson
Norine Sears Alder
Anne Smith Clements
Afton Ralphs
Sid Biggs
Vera Condie Biggs
Asael Bell
Cassie Bell
Frank Gilbert
Matilda Gilbert
Ben Johnson
and others
Board Advisors & Consultants
Lyle Fuller - Legal Counsel
Trish Checketts - Grants
Wayne Anderson - General Contractor