The History of DESCI

DESCI Living Becomes a Reality

Looking back to 1953, when DESCI was just a dream on "Cloud 9" to a unique architectural reality in 1963, we proudly review the historical events that made this dream come true.

On October 19, 1953, a group of active and retired employees met at the home of Miss Mae Gavin for the purpose of taking steps to set up a trust fund to provide adequate housing for older Denver Public School Employees. They felt this was important for a couple of reasons. First, was a pressing economic need since rewards in the public schools were relatively meager, particularly retirement benefits. Second, were the more subtle social needs. Many were single women whose primary interests were the children they taught and whose friends and acquaintances were largely other school people.

After it was determined that no existing school organization was able to undertake the project and that a separate corporation would be created, it was determined that assistance should be requested pursuant to Section 231 of the National Housing Act where aid in the form of mortgage insurance to non-profit groups wishing to provide housing for elderly people was available.

Since the Government required sponsorship by another established organization, the Denver Teachers Club agreed to sponsor the project. As a result of the beginning, some monies were made available through bequests, gifts and donations and were held in trust by the Denver Teacher's Club. Early in the fall of 1954, Denver classroom teacher's association appointed a committee to explore this problem. This committee was enlarged to include all classifications of the Denver Public Schools. This representative group became the committee for the promotion of a Home for retired personnel of the DPS.

The spring of 1955, the Denver Classroom Teacher's Association made available $1,500 dollars for limited preliminary legal and architectural services. This action decisively demonstrates their loyalties to those men and women who have retired, their respect for them, and their concern over their problems.

Later, many of our school personnel, active and retired proved their faith in the project, by donating funds to the cause.

In June 1957, certificate of Incorporation were filed. Under Article I of this certificate, the name of the corporation shall be The Denver Educational Senior Citizens, Incorporated. Thus DESCI became legalized.

ON October 26, 1961 Ground Breaking Ceremonies were held at 1901 E. 13th Avenue. DESCI opened in the late spring of 1963, ideally located 102 units, twelve-story apartment building.

From 1953-1963, denoted a decade of dedicated and devoted service generously given by individuals, committees, Board of Trustees of DESCI, Board of Denver Classroom Teachers, Board of Denver Teachers Club, and Board of Denver Public Schools Retired Employees Association cooperatively working to make a dream a reality. We are proud of the hallmark of service DESCI represents and of the beauty it adds to our "Mile Hi" skyline. DECSI living has become a reality.

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Page last updated: August 29 2005 08:18:59

Photo Courtesy of Denver Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau