Colorado’s oldest high school marked its anniversary at the front steps of the school.

Denver’s oldest high school marked its 150th anniversary with a lively celebration on the steps of East High School in September. Hundreds of teachers, students, and alumni gathered to hear speakers share stories of past shenanigans, honor notable graduates, and encourage future East Angels to carry forward the school’s proud legacy.

This year also marks a century in the school’s current building designed by an East graduate from the Class of 1893. At the time of its dedication, community member Dorus Hatch described it as “a structure of ideas and ideals…an institution whose office it is to beat back the blight of ignorance and push far the frontiers of knowledge.”

Those sentiments were echoed by many of the speakers at the rededication event. Current principal Terita Walker said East’s promise is still “to nurture scholarship and inspire creativity. To celebrate beauty in all its forms. To honor our differences while recognizing our shared purpose in education.” She concluded, “And most importantly, to confront ignorance, intolerance, and hate with love, kindness, and empathy.”

Former Colorado Senate President Peter Groff, Class of 1981, talked about the many graduates who became leaders in their field, including several Grammy winners, an astronaut, a Miss America, and the first African American Oscar winner. He reminded the audience of the “resilience that has fueled a legacy of greatness in students, staff, and faculty.” He ended with a charge to current students: “You need to continue the legacy of service and community and family. The nation needs you more now than ever before. We need to hear the unique and impactful voices of Angels that we have been for 150 years.”

After the ceremony, students and school officials opened two time capsules that had been moved from the previous building and sealed inside an exterior wall of the “new” school. Inside was an 1871 dance card for a Christmas ball, an 1872 newspaper clipping, report cards, an 1880 diploma, photographs, and school directories. Students in the East Museum Club plan to gather items, including photos documenting current student life, throughout this school year for a new time capsule.

East High School Principal Terita Walker addressed students, teachers, and alumni at a celebration of the school’s 150th anniversary, as members of the East Honors Choir looked on.

The rededication activities were followed by Homecoming weekend, class reunions, and tours of the East building, including the Clock Tower Museum.

Former CO Senate President Peter Groff paid tribute to alumni accomplishments.

The celebrations concluded the following weekend with an East High School Film Festival. The documentary Angel Power: 150 Years of East High Excellence was premiered, and a series of films that featured East alumni were shown, including In this Our Life (Hattie McDaniel attended East 1908-1910) and Jackie Brown (Pam Grier, Class of 1967).

Front Porch photos by Christie Gosch