1020 4th Ave - Central Elementary School
Central Elementary School - 1878
Construction of this building was authorized by the School Board of School District 17 (now known as District RE1) on December 6, 1877. It is the oldest school building in Boulder County.
Central Elementary (originally known as Franklin School) was built as a two-story brick school in 1878. By 1881, an addition was made which included a portico and bell tower. 1903, called for another addition due to increasing enrollment and population growth. "Don't wait for the ringing of the bell" a quote from a newspaper article indicating that they would no longer ring the bell each day.
1912, another big change came to our Central School. They received electrical wiring to the porches and all classrooms (one injury was reported when a worker fell off of a ladder but he was ok). 1913 enrolled was up to 347 students, which would continue to lead to problems related to space in the building.
1925, was an uncertain time for Old Central. It was discussed for a period of time that it should be torn down in order to build bigger and better schools. Thankfully a resolution was found, and Longmont High School on Main Street was the one that got the upgrades necessary in order to accommodate the population.
Throughout the years, Central has had many additions and changes, but it still stands tall in Old Town. It not only has served as a place of learning, but a place for community. WWI drafting stations were housed there as well.
Photo:
Central School in 1895