East High History
Academic excellence, vibrant community, iconic architectural legacy.
From its beginnings in 1874 to its current home on the City Park Esplanade, East has been a cornerstone of education in Denver, shaping generations of students and earning its place as a landmark of pride and tradition. Explore the milestones, achievements, and lasting impact of this remarkable school.
East High School: A Legacy of Excellence
East High School’s greatness lies in its legacy of academic achievement, athletic victories, distinguished alumni, and a community built on lifelong friendships. For over a century, East has been a cornerstone of Denver’s education, celebrated for its rigorous curriculum, vibrant clubs and activities, and the iconic grandeur of its architecture. From its earliest days, students and staff pledged to an “Aristocracy of Service”—a commitment that continues to inspire the East community today.
The history of East began alongside Denver’s own. In 1874, Denver’s first high school opened as Arapahoe School, named for the local Arapahoe tribe. By 1877, the first graduating class of seven students crossed the stage of Central Presbyterian Church. In 1881, “Old East” was built on Welton and Stout Streets, officially known as East Side Denver High School (later simplified to East High School). This magnificent building, nicknamed Denver’s “Greek Temple of Learning,” became a beacon of classical education with Greek and Latin as required subjects.
As Denver grew, so did East. By 1922, the construction of a new, larger building began on the City Park Esplanade. Completed in 1925, the new East High School became a crown jewel of Mayor Speer’s “City Beautiful” plan. Its striking architecture, complemented by the nearby Esplanade and Sullivan Gateway, cemented East’s status as one of Denver’s most beautiful landmarks.
East High School is more than just a building; it’s a community. Thousands of students—known as Angels—have walked its halls, later achieving distinction in academics, arts, public service, and athletics. With a robust curriculum, dedicated teachers, and award-winning programs in speech, music, drama, ROTC, and Constitutional Scholars, East remains Denver’s flagship school. Parent involvement and a strong alumni network have further strengthened its foundation, ensuring East High’s enduring legacy.
For a deeper dive into East High’s remarkable history, consider reading Flights of Angels: A History of Denver East High School, written by Richard Nelson, an English teacher at East from 1964 to 1995.
Lots of history, great especially for all of us were lucky enough to attend East! And the author was one of my favorite English teachers!
Great history of Denver East High School. I bought it and got Mr. Nelson, who frequently visits the school, to sign it!
Book Overview
What do Judy Collins, Douglas Fairbanks Sr., and “Happy” Haynes have in common? How about Sidney Sheldon, Jack Swigert, and Marilyn Van Derbur? All of them – together with Thomas Hornsby Ferrill, Don Cheadle, Steve and Bill McNichols, and three of the founding members of Earth, Wind, and Fire – attended East High School in Denver.
In the early days of East High School, students were challenged to aspire to an “Aristocracy of Service.” For more than 130 years, this school has turned out its share of celebrities, leading citizens, and thousands of productive young people into a world of challenge and opportunity.
What is it that makes an East education a bit different from any other education? Why do East alums continue their strong devotion to their alma mater? How has East been able to keep its traditions alive when so much has changed in society? Some of the answers are found in the pages of this book; others are known only to those who proudly call themselves Angels.
Flights of Angels takes the reader on a trip back in time when the first East students attended Arapahoe school near the banks of the South Platte River, and follows the evolution of the school, the city, education styles and cultural crises from the earliest days of Denver to the 21st century. Through the decades and generations, the “little red schoolhouse on Colfax” has remained one of the great architectural and educational institutions of Denver – perhaps the nation. Here is its amazing story.