ORMA, Oak Ridge Military Academy, 2317 Oak Ridge Road (Highway 150) is located northwest of Greensboro. It was established in 1850s, before the Civil War, and the buildings and property encompass 38 acres. The school has evolved over the years (read more here), both in curriculum and student population and in the feeling of remoteness. At one time, there was no commercial development around the academy, mostly just a few houses and woods. Today, cadets are within walking distance of a convenience store, Wendy's, a grocery store, McDonald's, and more. Also, many community ball teams play on the ORMA fields.
The above photo shows the ORMA sign getting painted. It was fascinating to see what may have been the world's largest stencils put in place. The red letters are a bright and bold standout, just west of the chapel and old well. Since 1983, the whole compound, including 21 buildings and "one contributing structure" have been on the National Register of historic places. We're wondering if that contributing structure would that be this tower or the old well. ORMA has been a Guilford County resource for 170 years. Let's hope they are thinking ahead for their bicentennial! In the meantime, we need to get back to check on the finished paint job. It is so fun to drive around Greensboro (and the county) and see how everyone is spring cleaning and sprucing up their properties.
Happy Monday!
A big sign!
Posted by: Wiiliam Kendall | Monday, May 10, 2021 at 08:18 AM