Established in 1864 the University of Denver boasts a rich history. It began as the Colorado Seminary. This was just six years after Denver itself was founded. Imagine the wild west setting. A fledgling city surrounded by mountains. The seminary was initially non-sectarian though founded by Methodists. It struggled in its early years.
The University of Denver however persevered. By 1880 it had officially changed its name. It relocated from downtown Denver. The rough and tumble frontier atmosphere proved unsuitable for education. The move was to land donated by potato farmer Rufus Clark. This was six miles south of the city center. The university’s growth mirrored Denver’s growth. It primarily served regional students before World War II. The G.I. Bill however changed all that. A huge surge in students boosted enrollment to over 13000. This was the largest the university has ever been. It also expanded its reputation nationally.
The University of Denver’s campus is stunning. The oldest building is University Hall. It dates back to 1890. It’s built in the Richardsonian Romanesque style. This is a really special building. Its cornerstone sits exactly one mile above sea level. The Chamberlin Observatory is just a short distance away. Opened in 1894 it is still fully operational. It’s open to the public twice a week. It is open one Saturday a month too.
Many other beautiful buildings grace the campus. Evans Memorial Chapel is one. It’s an 1870s church. It was originally downtown. It was moved to the campus in the 1960s. Buchtel Tower is all that remains of the original Buchtel Chapel. The chapel burned in 1983. The Daniels College of Business is another highlight. Completed in 1999 it cost $25 million. It has received national recognition. It is ranked highly for producing ethical students. The Newman Center for Performing Arts is a must-see. Opened in 2002 it houses the Lamont School of Music. The center includes a concert hall a recital hall and a theatre. The center also hosts many professional performing arts groups.
The University of Denver continues to evolve. New buildings keep appearing on campus. The Morgridge College of Education opened in 2010. The Anderson Academic Commons opened in 2013. It replaced the Penrose Library after a $32 million renovation. The Sie International Relations Complex opened in 2016. The Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science also opened that year. These are all impressive structures that showcase the university’s growth and commitment to modern facilities.
The University of Denver has a fascinating past. Its present is equally impressive. It is a place of learning innovation and beauty. A true gem of Denver.