HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
Built in 1922, the Melvin Schoolhouse served the Melvin community in the southern area of present-day Cherry Creek State Park. In its first year it held classes for 26 children from 1st grade through high school. It served school children for 27 years. The area was condemned in 1949 for the construction of the Cherry Creek Dam. The structure was moved to its second location to become the original Emerald Isle tavern. In 1976, the building was acquired by the Cherry Creek School District and moved to its current location. Its historical exterior and interior have been accurately restored by the Cherry Creek Valley Historical Society, which now operates it as a 1940's classroom, library, and museum.
Acknowledgements: It is used as a special events meeting place for Piney Creek Chapter, NSDAR. The chapter donates time, talent, and monetary support for the preservation of the contents of the museum, including historic maps, documents, books, and other research materials.
Form submitted by Piney Creek Chapter, Colorado State Society NSDAR, Colorado 04/14/2017
HISTORICAL DESIGNATIONS:
- National Register of Historic Places
- City Landmark
- Other: City Landmark: Aurora Historical Landmark No. 1
HISTORICAL MARKER:
- Marker Date: 1984
- Marker Organization: National Register of Historic Places
- Marker Text : "This property has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior."
ORIGINAL OWNER: Melvin School District No. 4
CURRENT OWNER: Cherry Creek School District
