Brush Creek Schoolhouse

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Brush Creek Schoolhouse



The desire of the early ranchers to provide their children with an education prompted a proliferation of small school districts and one-room schools.  The intent was to provide schools within reasonable traveling distance for the children who walked or rode horses to class.

When the homesteaders first came to East and West Brush Creek in the early 1900s, the nearest school was in the mining camp of Fulford, about nine miles distant.  The ranches n the creek believed a school near the forks of East and West Brush Creeks would better serve their children. 

An election was held, and the voters of School Districk No. 17 agreed to close down the Fulford School and build a new school above the forks of Brush Creek.  Initially, classes were held int he "Halfway House" stage stop.  Money for the school was raised at community suppers and dances.  Local ranchers volunteered their labor on constructios of the school.  The first classes were held in 1916.

A number of local women taught at teh school, but the most remembered teacher was Mary Bemis, who wsa hired in 1923, and taught for 18 years.  Mrs. Bemis was a widow who lived behind the schoolhouse with her daughter, Sophia Jane.

By the early 1940s, the many small school districts were consolidated into larger districts.  As transportation became easier, children could travel greater distances to larger schools.  The Upper Brush Creek School was last used in 1941.
Posted: 3/7/2018 10:12:34 AM | with 0 comments


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