For over a century, the Svea Schoolhouse has welcomed generations of students, each leaving their mark on its storied walls. Once a place of learning and gathering, it now thrives as a vibrant art school, inspiring creativity and connection. With deep roots in the community, this historic schoolhouse has long been a haven for dreamers, thinkers, and artists. We invite you to explore its rich history and enduring legacy.
Farmers Holiday
District No. 55 School
Now home to DEMO (Developing, Exploring, Maintaining Originality through the Arts), the Svea School—also known as District No. 55 School—was built in 1907 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It holds historical significance as a key meeting site of the Farmers’ Holiday Association.
Founded in 1932 by Milo Reno and John H. Bosch, the short-lived Farmers’ Holiday Association encouraged farmers to declare a "holiday" from farming. Their rallying cries included, “Stay at home, buy nothing and sell nothing,” and “Let’s call a Farmers’ Holiday, a holiday let’s hold. We’ll eat our wheat and ham and eggs, and let them eat their gold.”
The movement’s attempt at a nationwide strike ultimately failed when disagreements arose between dairy and corn farmers over tactics, fracturing their united front. By 1934, the association had lost most of its political power, and in 1937, it was folded into the Farmers Union.
Historic Students
