East Otto just like other townships in Cattaraugus County had many one room schoolhouses. A few remain and are private residences. Pictured is a schoolhouse on Crumb Hill no longer in use. The larger community school could be found in some communities.
The 3 room schoolhouse in East Otto housed grades 1 through 6 for many years. Three teachers are remembered by many adults who attended this school. Many happy memories remain. A memory that was not so pleasant, was the odor of the freshly oiled wooden floors that permeated the building when we students returned from Christmas break. The floors were oiled at other times when students were away, however, the building was not so closed-up in warmer weather and the fumes would drift out the open windows.
The picture of the 3 room schoolhouse is as it looks at the present time. A very dedicated group of former students and residents and supporters joined to "save the school" when the word was that it would be torn down. Through hours of dedicated hard work of sometimes physical labor, or seeking funding and raising money these folks have literally saved the school. It is now the home of the Town Hall, justice offices and used for other community activities. A current playground has been added in the back field where the sixth grade once had their softball diamond. A sense of pride is felt by those who attended this fine facility. For all of the former students who have not stepped up to assist the dedicated group comes a thank you to those of you who cared enough to preserve a treasure. "Job well done!"