Maeser Elementary

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Maeser Elementary is an elementary school in Provo, Utah. It was named after Karl G. Maeser.

It is known as one of the oldest schools in Utah. Having been erected in the year of 1898, it is just over one hundred years-old.

Maeser Elementary School opened in 1898. It was named for Karl Maeser, a noted Provo resident, first president of the nearby Brigham Young University. The School was the longest continually running school building in Utah. The building was designed by Richard C. Watkins, one of the most prolific architects in central Utah.

The Maeser School is a significant example of civic architecture with applied Romanesque ornament. This style was popular in Utah from 1880 to 1890 but few examples remain. This school was the oldest public school still in use in the state, and one of the best preserved examples of Watkins' work. Maeser School was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

Maeser School's enrollment dwindled until the decision was made to close its doors 2001. The future of the historic Maeser School has become what Mayor Lewis K. Billings called “The second biggest building controversy in the history of Provo.” (The Daily Herald; August 20, 2004)

The Maeser School Block is currently under redevelopment by the Provo City Housing Authority. The building will be adaptively reused as senior housing.