Historic Preservation

Bunce School

Constructed in 1888 by V.H. “Dick” Rowley and J.H. Bunce, the one-room school provides a glimpse into the past of the once common rural education system that characterized Boulder County. Located in the mountains of western Boulder County and susceptible to harsh winter conditions, the Bunce School operated in reverse of the commonly accepted fall to spring term by holding classes from April to October. The school continued to operate until 1946 when consolidation of the school district forced its closure. Originally built to provide for the educational needs of the local children, the school also served the social life of the area by functioning as a community center and occasionally as a church until 1951. The Bunce School is the last remaining hand-hewn log schoolhouse in Boulder County and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.