That imposing red brick building before you is East High School. It’s more than just a school. It’s a Denver landmark a piece of history.
East High opened its doors way back in 1875. That makes it the very first high school in Denver. Can you imagine? The first graduating class walked across that stage in 1877. Think of all the students who followed. All the stories. All the dreams.
Initially East High was located downtown. It needed more space though. In 1889 it moved to a new building at 19th and Stout Street. They called this location Old East. This building could accommodate 700 students. But even that wasn’t enough for long.
The East High we see today was built in 1925. It’s a stunning building. It boasts a 162-foot clock tower. It’s modeled after Independence Hall in Philadelphia. That’s quite a claim to fame isn’t it?
The architect George Hebard Williamson was himself an East High graduate. He was a Denver native. He designed this magnificent structure. The building is a beautiful example of Jacobethan Revival architecture.
East High’s history isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about the people. Famous alumni include Don Cheadle Judy Collins and even Mamie Eisenhower. Think of the achievements and contributions of these individuals. All shaped by their time at East High.
Sadly the school has also faced challenges. In recent years there have been shootings near or on campus. This is a stark reminder of the complexities facing schools today.
Despite those tragedies East High continues to thrive. It remains one of the top high schools in the nation. Its students continue to excel. The spirit of the Angels lives on. This building stands as a testament to Denver’s past its present and its future. A legacy of learning and achievement. It stands as a symbol of hope and resilience.