The Old School Museum building was originally constructed for use as a school. The land was donated by Sir William Manning and the school opened in 1873. It is believed to be one of only three schools built which comprised both classrooms and a teacher's residence remaining in New South Wales. In 1875, enrolment totalled 39 children. The building was vacated in 1946 and stood unused for many years. In 1973 the Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society began operating the museum from this very suitable building. The structure is listed on the register of the National Trust of Australia.