The Sherman School Building

Built in 1893, the Sherman School is a prominent landmark that represents the grandeur and pride that was once part of the public school image. Rising above the surrounding residential neighborhood, the main Richardson Romanesque structure features a sandstone base and arched portico entries that welcome students today as they have for 110 years. The building was designed by architect Henry Dozier, and is one of only a few of his structures that are still in existence.

The Sherman School in 1920 Granite columns flank each side of the West entry portal.
Double hung windows with transoms above, sandstone sills and a continuous beltcourse was restored in 1996. The West arched entry portal is trimmed in dressed sandstone and carved, foliated keystone.

The Annex

The Annex building on the North side of the main building was built in 1920 and is typical of the "bungalow school." It was designed with a decidedly homey character to accommodate kindergarten children, featuring fireplaces in its two rooms that today are spacious sculpture studios.

Before the 1996 restoration the Annex sat with a covered porch in a sea of concrete. The wide, recessed entry porch with double door entrances was restored to its original condition in 1996. Lawn, trees and perennial flowers have replaced the pavement.

The Gardens

Once covered in blacktop and surrounded by a rusted chain link fence, the surrounding gardens were landscaped in 2001 and have since been lovingly designed, planted and maintained through the hard work and green thumbs of a team of garden volunteers. The gardens include many native Rocky Mountain Region perennials. Funding was generated through private donations and foundation contributions.

The Sherman School's Landmark Designation & Restoration In 1995 the building received historical landmark status from Denver, and was subsequently restored through a $1.2 million campaign which included generous support from the State Historical Fund, a program of the Colorado Historical Society as well as matching funds from many foundations.

Foundations Supporting the Restoration Campaigh

  • Denver Foundation
  • Bonfils Stanton Foundation
  • Colorado Historical Society
  • Boettcher Foundation
  • Gates Family Foundation
  • El Pomar Foundation
  • King Foundation
  • JFM Foundation
  • Coors Foundation

The League's Latest Restoration Project

In January 2004, the State Historical Fund awarded the League a significant grant to continue the restoration of our beautiful building, the Sherman School. With a commitment from the League's Board of Directors and foundations to give the required cash-match, the restoration will preserve the League for you and for future generations. Kris Hoehn, of Hoehn Architects P.C., will be the architect leading this ambitious project.

Check back for updates as we embark on this historic undertaking over the next year.


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