J.G. Smale, Madera County’s vagabond schoolteacher

For The Madera Tribune

Teacher J.G. Smale is seen here standing beside his students in front of Berenda School.

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There might be a few Madera County residents who remember J.G. Smale; he might even have some descendants here today. The chances are good, however, that there are none who recall being in the classroom of this ubiquitous teacher, but he deserves to be remembered.

Smale was one of the few men who sought a career in education at a time when it was not “the manly thing to do.” Most of the male educators of the 19th century performed their tasks out of necessity, always looking for greener pastures.

Not so with Smale. He was a teacher, first, last, and always, and for 20 years he was a powerful force in our educational system.