Franklin School was built in 1867 at a cost between $35,000 to $40,000. Originally named The Number One School (after its City Ward), it was later renamed Franklin School in honor of Benjamin Franklin. Its capacity was six hundred pupils and it housed Bloomington High School as well as all elementary grades from 1867 to 1869. It was located on the corner of Park and Empire Streets. In 1900, a new Franklin School would be built to replace this structure.
