市立大河小学校

Nestled at the foot of Kogane Mountain, Hiroshima Municipal Okawa Elementary School has witnessed a fascinating interplay of history and education. Okawa Elementary, located in Minami Ward, first opened its doors in 1873. It began humbly in a rented private home, affectionately nicknamed “Ichijuku,” or “one-room schoolhouse.” Imagine young minds gathering, eager to learn within those simple walls. Years later, in 1891, a two-story wooden schoolhouse arose near Kogane Shrine. This marked a significant step forward for Okawa Elementary. This new structure boasted three separate classrooms: one each for the Hinomi, Tanabe, and Mukou districts. This marked Okawa Elementary’s official establishment. The school proudly served as a practice school for the Hiroshima Normal School between 1902 and 1928. This era solidified Okawa Elementary’s role in shaping educational practices. A new wooden schoolhouse was built on the current site in 1907. As the war clouds gathered in 1944, air raid drills became a stark reality. Anti-aircraft guns were even installed in the schoolyard, transforming a place of learning into a potential battleground. The atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, brought devastation to Okawa Elementary. The school, though heavily damaged, became a refuge for survivors. Its classrooms and grounds provided shelter and care for the injured. The resilient community rallied, dedicating themselves to rebuilding the school. In 1949, a steel-reinforced school building emerged, symbolizing hope amidst the ruins. Okawa Elementary continued to grow, witnessing the establishment of Koganezan Elementary School in 1962. This expansion accommodated the burgeoning student population. Okawa Elementary celebrated its 120th anniversary in 1993, a testament to its enduring presence in Hiroshima. Today, as you stand before Hiroshima Municipal Okawa Elementary School, remember the echoes of history that resonate within its walls. From its humble beginnings to its role in a city reborn, Okawa Elementary embodies the spirit of perseverance and the enduring power of education.