Butler School, 812 Gorham Street

1882

National Register of Historic Places (2/2/1995)

The Butler School is a fine example of Queen Anne architecture, illustrating many characteristic features of the style including its irregular massing, carved wood panels and trim, and granite and brick coursing.  It was designed by Lowell architect Frederick Stickney who was also responsible for several other Lowell public buildings including Lowell High School (30 Kirk Street; 1892) and the Pollard Memorial Library (401 Merrimack Street; 1893).  The school was part of a major school building effort in the late 19^th century to accommodate enormous population increases in Lowell.  It was named for General Benjamin Butler who lived much of his life in Lowell having served as a lawyer, soldier, and statesman including Governor of Massachusetts.