William Culbertson's School

by Doug Humes

Too often, one generation commemorates its heroes and the next generation forgets them. We name roads and parks for people who were instrumental in their creation, and then while the name continues, the memory disappears. So it’s good for each generation to refresh its memory by remembering the people who created foundations upon which subsequent generations have built. Such is the case with Culbertson School, the only public elementary school in Newtown Township.

Welcoming back the students in tumultuous times

Photo courtesy of the Marple Newtown School District

The Baby Boom brought lots of families to Newtown in the 1950s. The Alice Grim School was bursting at its seams, and new facilities were needed. Twelve acres were acquired on Goshen Road, and a new school was built and dedicated on January 18, 1959. The sign outside proclaimed its name: Culbertson School. But who was Culbertson?

The school award to deserving students, the “Caring Cougar”

Photo courtesy of the Newtown Square Historical Society

William Samuel Culbertson, Sr., moved to Newtown at age 4 and lived his life here. His occupation was bus driver and railwayman, but he was a jack of all trades, and volunteered in the community. He served on the School Board from 1919–1947, and was the Treasurer for most of that time. He successfully navigated the shoals of the Great Depression, preserving school funds intact, and securing Works Progress Administration (WPA) projects such as the expansion of the high school, which brought funds and jobs to the community.

Cover of program for the 1959 dedication ceremony

Photo courtesy of the Newtown Square Historical Society

He was a Republican committeeman from 1928 until his death in 1947. He served as the Township Roadmaster from 1929–1947: He as “a one-man snow-plow operation.” He was one of the organizers and an officer of the Marple Newtown Savings and Loan Association for many years. He was a charter member of the local Lions club, and a member of Rotary and Newtown Square Fire Company. His three children attended Newtown schools, and son William S. Culbertson, Jr., followed in his father’s footsteps, serving on the school board in the 1950s and ’60s. Junior was proudly in attendance at the 1959 dedication ceremony for the school that bears his father’s name.

The first faculty members, as listed in the 1959 dedication ceremony program

Photo courtesy of the Newtown Square Historical Society

William S. Culbertson, Sr., was not an educated man as we now think of it: He only completed 7th grade before going off to work on the family farm, and then a lifetime of service to his community. And yet in his 49 years on earth, he was able to accomplish so much for Newtown township. So when you pass the school, remember as well this man who gave back.

For more history on Newtown Square, Delaware County, and membership information, please visit our website at: www.NSHistory.org.

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