Montezuma Schoolhouse

Location/Directions

At 10,400 feet, the Montezuma Schoolhouse is one of the highest school buildings in the nation.  This frame, clapboarded structure was the town’s second schoolhouse. The opening of silver mines in the area caused the town’s population to increase so rapidly that the first school, built in 1880, soon became too small to house the growing number of students.  This larger structure opened in 1884; the belfry, bell and entry hall were added later.  Protestants held services in the building (Catholics had their own church), and they greatly appreciated the purchase of an organ, made possible by funds raised through programs and box-supper socials. The school was in use until 1958. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties in January of 2007.

In 2008 and 2009, extensive repairs were made to the schoolhouse foundation, the front steps were replaced and other repairs and painting were done with a grant from the Colorado Historical Fund and with the help of Society volunteers.

Directions: The Montezuma Schoolhouse is located on the hillside east of Main Street in Montezuma.