Lakeport >> The 70th quilt block on the Lake County Quilt Trail (LCQT) is “Crossed Canoes” at the Lakeport Academy on 225 Fourth St.
Professor John Overholser established the academy in 1884 at that site. Previously used as Lakeport Grammar School, the building was moved from up the hill down to the corner of Fourth and Forbes streets so a new grammar school could be built up the hill. Joseph F. Edmunds had a harness shop in the lower story of the first academy. The new academy had four pupils on opening day, but 16 before the year was over.
Overholser taught alone for two years. Later his assistants were Miss Rooney, Miss Eloise Boone and Miss Sara Haycock.
In 1890 Overholser built a two-story academy west of what is now Del Lago The Lakeport Academy continued until the formation of the Clear Lake Union High School District. In the early 1900s, the Lakeport Academy ended and the building was leased to the new school district. Overholser went on to become the science instructor in the new high school.
This building, now owned by Carole and Alexander McGeogh, is a private residence. Their son, who lives on the property, helped renovate the house. He bought a canoe and enjoys living by the lake.
The LCQT is an agricultural and tourism project designed to promote community pride. The 4-by-4-foot quilt block was drawn and painted by the LCQT team, a group of dedicated quilters, graphic artists, painters, writers, carpenters and a videographer.
For more information about the quilt trail visit lakecountyquilttrail.com.
