National Register Listing

Coeymans School

a.k.a. Acton Civill Polytechnic Institute

SW corner of Westerlo St. and Civill Ave., Coeymans, NY

The history of the Acton Civill Polytechnic Institute is closely tied to the career of Acton Civill (1804-1889), a native of Coeymans, New York. Civill became a well-known New York City resident and businessman during the nineteenth century and maintained a summer home in Coeymans.

Continuing a strong family interest in education, Civill purchased in 1865 and 1870 land on which to erect the academy building, which was apparently constructed in 1873. the school was incorporated as "The Acton Civill Polytechnic Institute" Although the building was never used for educational purposes during Civili's lifetime, the story of the Institute is significant as a local episode in the history of nineteenth century educational philanthropy. In 1899 the building was purchased by the Coeymans Board of Education and served as a public school until 1963.

The Institute building is an outstanding structure in Coeymans because of its character, size and position. It is visible from many points around the community, and it serves as a landmark that identified the entire area. It is representative of a building type and social institution--the private school or academy--that occupied an important position in New York State communities during the nineteenth century.

Architecturally, the building is a fine example of the design of the period. Its large size and robust architectural treatment indicate the importance that Civill intended it to have in the community. The exterior massing of the structure is very strong, and the elevations are well-scaled. The details are designed to form a varied and interesting exterior; the interior is laid out in a very functional manner.

Local significance of the building:
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1970.