Entrance to the historic Fourth Ward School Museum in Virginia City.
One of the most impressive historic structures still standing in the old mining town of Virginia City is the community’s majestic Fourth Ward School.
Well-maintained due to the ongoing efforts of many in the local community, the Fourth Ward School is proof of the importance of historic preservation efforts.
The school was built in 1876 in the French-influenced Second Empire architectural style, which was popular in the late 19th century.
Inside, room boasts high-ceilings, transoms above the doors and large windows that allowed the free flow of air were included in the design because it was thought that they helped reduce the spread of contagious diseases.
The school’s relative opulence – cost estimates range from $50,000 to as high as $100,000 – reflect the era when it was built. The mid-1870s were the peak of the Comstock mining boom, so it was only fitting that such a successful community build such an impressive schoolhouse.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the school is its size. It was constructed to accommodate more than 1,000 students in 16 classrooms. Housed on its four floors were both a grammar school and a high school.
The structure also boasted many surprisingly modern conveniences – at least they were modern for the times – such as a central heating system, water piped to every floor, drinking fountains and indoor “Philadelphia-style,” patented, spring-loaded, self-flushing toilets.
According to Nevada historian Susan James, the school achieved several educational milestones during its day, including being the first high school to award diplomas for successful completion of nine grades (by 1909, it had added all 12 grades).
Virginia City’s declining fortunes along with the school’s age and construction of a newer school building resulted in the Fourth Ward School closing in 1936.
For the next three decades, the magnificent structure stood empty, its fate uncertain. Starting in the 1960s, however, the community rallied around efforts to save the old school.
Finally, in the 1980s, the building was rehabilitated. In 1986, it reopened as a museum devoted to the school’s rich past and to telling the history of the Comstock region.
Today, a visit to the Fourth Ward School is a chance to glimpse the glorious history of 19th century Virginia City. Several of the old classrooms have been renovated and filled with historic artifacts telling both the story of the school and the city.
While the building boasts a modern elevator, walking to the second floor is a special treat because you can trudge up the worn wooden steps used by so many generations of Virginia City students — and almost feel their presence.
At the top of the stairs is a classroom that contains an old print shop, which was part of the school's vocational curriculum. A larger room across the hall is set up with chairs for public presentations and performances.
The school’s Changing Gallery features an exhibit offering an overview of the history of the Virginia and Truckee Railroad, including recent efforts to reconstruct the historic rail line between Virginia City and Carson City.
The Fourth Ward School Museum is located at 537 C St., at the south end of Virginia City (the Gold Hill side). The museum is open daily from May 1 through Oct. 31, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the winter, the museum offers reduced hours. Call 775-847-0975 ahead of time to see if they are open.
