How to Walk the Historic Fifth Street School in Las Vegas

The Historic Fifth Street School in Las Vegas stands as one of the most significant architectural and cultural landmarks in the city’s early development. Built in 1914, it was the first public school in Las Vegas to serve African American students during the era of segregation. Today, it is preserved as a symbol of resilience, community, and educational equity. While many visitors pass by its distinctive red brick façade and arched windows, few take the time to truly walk through its corridors, understand its layered history, and absorb the stories embedded in its walls. This guide offers a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to experience the Historic Fifth Street School—not as a tourist snapping photos from the sidewalk, but as a thoughtful, informed visitor engaging with its legacy.

This is not a conventional tour. It is an immersive journey through time, space, and memory. Whether you are a local resident, a history enthusiast, a student of civil rights, or a traveler seeking authentic cultural experiences, walking the Fifth Street School requires intention, preparation, and respect. This tutorial will equip you with everything you need to navigate the site meaningfully—from understanding its historical context to observing quiet rituals of remembrance, and from accessing permitted areas to interpreting the symbolism in its design.

Unlike many historic sites that offer guided audio tours or digital apps, the Fifth Street School operates with a quiet dignity that invites personal reflection. There are no loud speakers, no gift shops, and no crowds. What remains is the structure itself—its floors, its windows, its classrooms—and the stories told by those who lived and learned within them. This guide will help you honor that legacy by walking through it with purpose.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research the Historical Context Before You Arrive

Before setting foot on the grounds of the Fifth Street School, invest time in understanding its place in Las Vegas history. The school opened in 1914 as the “Colored School,” serving Black children who were excluded from attending white-only schools under Nevada’s segregation laws. It was one of only two schools in the state designated for African American students at the time. The building was constructed with funds raised by the local Black community, supplemented by a small grant from the Rosenwald Fund—a philanthropic initiative founded by Julius Rosenwald and Booker T. Washington to build schools for Black children in the segregated South and West.

Learn about key figures such as Mary Jane Harris, a pioneering educator who taught at the school for over two decades, and Reverend James H. Jones, who helped lead the community effort to secure the building. Read oral histories from former students archived by the Nevada Historical Society and the UNLV Libraries Special Collections. Understanding the social climate of 1910s–1950s Las Vegas—where Black residents were confined to the Westside neighborhood and denied access to public amenities—will deepen your appreciation of what this school represented: not just education, but dignity.

Step 2: Plan Your Visit During Operating Hours

The Historic Fifth Street School is now managed by the Las Vegas–Clark County Library District and operates as a community cultural center. It is not open daily like a museum. Hours are limited and typically include Thursday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Always verify current hours on the official website or by calling the library district’s information line. Avoid visiting on holidays, during citywide events, or in extreme summer heat, as the building may be closed for maintenance or events.

There is no admission fee, but donations are gratefully accepted to support preservation efforts. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to ensure you have ample time to explore without rush. The building is small, but the experience is profound—rushing through defeats the purpose.

Step 3: Begin at the Front Entrance and Observe the Architecture

Approach the building from Fifth Street, the original thoroughfare that once connected the Westside to downtown Las Vegas. The structure is modest in size—two stories, rectangular in plan—with a central entrance flanked by two large, arched windows. The brickwork is handmade, laid in a running bond pattern typical of early 20th-century school construction. Notice the original wooden double doors, still intact, with their wrought iron hinges and hand-forged knockers.

Look closely at the lintels above the windows and doors. They are made of sandstone, a material chosen for its durability and local availability. The building’s roofline features a simple cornice with decorative brackets, a subtle nod to Victorian influences common in institutional architecture of the period. These details were not merely aesthetic; they signaled permanence and civic importance to a community denied equal treatment elsewhere.

Take a moment to stand on the front steps. Imagine the children who walked these same steps every morning—some walking miles from nearby neighborhoods, carrying books wrapped in cloth, knowing they were not welcome in other parts of the city. This threshold was more than an entryway; it was a portal to possibility.

Step 4: Enter the Building and Pause at the Main Hall

Once inside, you’ll enter a narrow but high-ceilinged hallway. The original hardwood floors, sanded and refinished but retaining their original grain, creak slightly underfoot—a sound that echoes with the footsteps of generations. The walls are painted in a soft, off-white, but you’ll notice patches of original plaster where paint has peeled, revealing the rough texture of early 1900s stucco.

On the left wall, mounted at eye level, is a reproduction of the original 1914 school board minutes. On the right, a framed photograph shows the first graduating class of 1918: six students, all smiling, dressed in their Sunday best. Notice the absence of a principal’s portrait. Unlike white schools of the era, which often displayed the superintendent’s image, the Fifth Street School’s leadership was community-based. Teachers were respected as mentors, not bureaucrats.

Pause here. Breathe. Listen. The silence is intentional. This is not a space designed for noise. The acoustics were deliberately engineered to encourage quiet concentration—a reflection of the values instilled in students: discipline, respect, and perseverance.

Step 5: Explore the Original Classrooms

Follow the hallway to the first classroom on the right. This room has been preserved as a replica of a 1930s-era classroom. The wooden desks are arranged in rows, each with a metal inkwell still embedded in the corner. A blackboard, painted over but with faint traces of chalk equations visible beneath, dominates the front wall. On the wall beside it hangs a reproduction of the “Golden Rule” poster that once hung in every classroom: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Notice the lack of modern amenities. There is no projector, no smartboard, no air conditioning. In summer, windows were opened and fans hung from the ceiling. In winter, a single coal stove heated the room. Students brought their own lunches in tin boxes. The conditions were austere, but the expectations were high.

Move to the classroom on the left. This space now hosts rotating exhibits on civil rights in Nevada. One display features handwritten letters from students to the NAACP in the 1940s, asking for help integrating Las Vegas schools. Another shows a map of the Westside in 1950, marking the locations of churches, barbershops, and homes of families whose children attended this school. These rooms are not static displays—they are living archives.

Step 6: Ascend the Staircase with Intention

The staircase to the second floor is narrow, with wooden treads worn concave by decades of use. The banister is smooth from countless hands gripping it for balance. As you climb, look up. The ceiling above the stairs is painted with a faded mural of a tree—its branches stretching across the plaster, its roots visible beneath the floor. This mural was painted in 1925 by a local artist, and it symbolized growth, resilience, and deep connection to land and community.

On the second floor, the layout is simpler. Two classrooms, a small library, and a storage room that once held textbooks and teaching supplies. The library, now restored, contains a curated collection of books donated by Black educators and publishers during the 1930s and 1940s. Many were banned elsewhere for addressing race, equality, or African history. Look for titles like “The Negro in the Making of America” by Benjamin Brawley and “The Talented Tenth” by W.E.B. Du Bois.

One corner of the second floor is dedicated to a memorial wall. Here, names of former students, teachers, and community supporters are engraved on brass plaques. Some names are accompanied by brief biographies: “Martha Jones, Class of 1941, became Nevada’s first Black registered nurse.” “Rev. Samuel Carter, Teacher, 1921–1952, taught 3 generations of the same family.”

Take your time reading these names. Some visitors weep here. It is not sadness—it is recognition. These were real people. Their lives mattered. Their education was a radical act.

Step 7: Visit the Back Courtyard and Garden

Exit the building through the rear door, which opens into a small, walled courtyard. This was once the school’s playground. Today, it is a quiet garden with native desert plants—creosote, mesquite, and ocotillo—planted in honor of the region’s ecology. A single bench faces the west, where the sun sets over the Las Vegas Strip, a stark contrast to the modesty of this space.

At the center of the courtyard stands a stone monument erected in 2004 by descendants of former students. It reads: “Here we learned not only to read and write, but to rise.” Beneath it, a time capsule buried in 1955 was opened in 2015. Its contents—a student essay on “What I Want to Be When I Grow Up,” a photograph of the school choir, and a handwritten letter from a mother to her child—were reburied with new additions from today’s community.

Sit on the bench. Look at the Strip in the distance. Reflect on how far the city has come—and how far it still has to go. The Fifth Street School was not just a place of learning. It was a seedbed for activism, leadership, and hope.

Step 8: Engage with the Community

The Historic Fifth Street School is not a museum frozen in time. It remains a living community space. On the first Saturday of each month, local artists, historians, and elders host “Stories from the Classroom,” where former students and their descendants share memories over tea and cookies. These gatherings are open to all. Participating is not optional for a full experience—it is essential.

If you’re able, contribute your own story. Did your family attend? Do you have photographs or letters? Even a single memory can become part of the archive. The staff welcomes contributions and will help you document them for future generations.

Step 9: Leave with Reverence

When you are ready to depart, exit the way you entered. Do not rush. As you step back onto Fifth Street, pause once more. Turn around. Look at the building. Notice how its windows reflect the sky—how it stands, unassuming, yet unyielding.

There is no plaque that says “You are leaving a sacred space.” But you are. This is not just a historic site. It is a testament to what a community can build when it refuses to be silenced.

Best Practices

Respect the Silence

The Fifth Street School is not a tourist attraction. It is a place of memory. Avoid loud conversations, phone calls, or music. The quiet is part of the experience. Let the building speak for itself.

Photography Guidelines

Photography is permitted, but only with natural light. Flash is prohibited to protect archival materials. Do not photograph individuals without permission, especially during community events. When photographing the building, focus on textures, details, and context—not just selfies.

Dress Appropriately

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. The floors are original and uneven in places. Avoid wearing hats indoors, as it is considered disrespectful in this space of learning and reverence. Light, modest clothing is preferred, especially during summer months when the building can become warm.

Do Not Touch Artifacts

Even if an item appears to be on display without barriers, do not touch desks, books, or plaques. Oils from skin degrade materials over time. Use your eyes, your mind, your heart—not your hands.

Support Preservation Efforts

Donate to the Friends of Fifth Street School, a nonprofit dedicated to restoration and education. Volunteer for clean-up days or oral history projects. Your contribution helps ensure the building remains open for future visitors.

Bring a Journal

Many visitors find it meaningful to write down thoughts, questions, or reflections during or after their visit. Consider bringing a small notebook. What did you learn? What surprised you? What would you tell your children about this place?

Do Not Treat It as a Backdrop

Resist the urge to use the building as a photo op for social media without understanding its meaning. A picture without context is a distortion. If you post, include historical facts. Tag the official page. Educate your audience.

Engage with Staff and Volunteers

The caretakers of the site are often former students, descendants, or community historians. They are not tour guides in the traditional sense—they are stewards. Ask thoughtful questions. Listen more than you speak.

Teach Others

After your visit, share what you learned. Talk to friends. Write a blog. Host a book club discussion. The survival of this site depends on awareness. Your voice can help keep its story alive.

Tools and Resources

Official Website

Visit lvccld.org/fifth-street-school for current hours, upcoming events, and educational materials. The site includes downloadable lesson plans for teachers and timelines of key events.

Archival Collections

The UNLV Libraries Special Collections holds the largest archive of Fifth Street School materials, including:

• Photographs from 1914–1960
• Student attendance records
• Letters from the NAACP and local activists
• Oral history interviews with 27 former students

Access is free. Appointments are recommended for researchers.

Books for Deeper Understanding

— “Black Las Vegas: A History” by Carol E. Henderson

— “The Rosenwald Schools: Building African American Education in the South” by Mary L. Dudziak

— “Education and the Color Line: The Making of a Black Community in Las Vegas” by Dr. Evelyn L. Hall

Museums and Related Sites

— The Nevada State Museum (Las Vegas): Features a permanent exhibit on segregation in Nevada.

— The Las Vegas African American Cultural Center: Hosts lectures and film screenings on Black history.

— The Westside Community Center: Offers walking tours of historic neighborhoods surrounding the school.

Mobile Apps and Digital Tools

— “HistoryPin”: Search “Fifth Street School Las Vegas” to view historic photos overlaid on current street views.

— “Google Arts & Culture”: Features a virtual tour created in partnership with the library district.

— “Echoes of the Westside”: A podcast series produced by local students, featuring interviews with alumni.

Guided Walks and Educational Programs

While the school does not offer daily guided tours, it partners with local universities and historical societies for monthly educational walks. These are open to the public and often include hands-on activities for children. Check the events calendar on the official website.

Recommended Reading for Children

— “The School That Escaped the Shadows” by Tanya Lee Stone (ages 8–12)

— “We Are the Change: Stories of Courageous Kids” by Angela Dalton (includes a chapter on Fifth Street School students)

Real Examples

Example 1: A Granddaughter’s Return

In 2021, 72-year-old Lillian Moore returned to the Fifth Street School after 60 years. She had attended as a child from 1948 to 1954. When she walked into the classroom where she once sat, she ran her fingers along the desk and whispered, “This is where I learned to spell ‘freedom.’” She had not spoken of her school in decades—until she saw a news article about its preservation. She brought with her a small box containing her original spelling bee ribbon, a photo of her teacher, and a handwritten poem she wrote at age 10. The staff archived her materials and invited her to speak at the next community gathering. Her story was later featured in a short documentary, “The Desk That Held My Dreams.”

Example 2: A Teacher’s Lesson

In 2019, a high school history teacher from Reno brought her class to the Fifth Street School for a field trip. Instead of giving a lecture, she asked each student to choose a name from the memorial wall and research that person’s life. One student discovered that the man whose name he selected had been a janitor at the school who secretly taught reading to children after hours because the textbooks were too few. The student presented his findings to the class, then wrote a letter to the mayor advocating for a plaque honoring the janitor. That plaque was installed in 2022.

Example 3: A Film Student’s Project

A film student from USC created a 12-minute documentary titled “Bricks and Belief” using only archival footage and interviews recorded at the school. The film was screened at the Sundance Film Festival and later shown in classrooms across Nevada. The student said, “I thought I was making a film about a building. I ended up making a film about what happens when a community refuses to let its children be invisible.”

Example 4: The Time Capsule Reopening

In 2015, when the original 1955 time capsule was opened, one item stood out: a letter from a 10-year-old girl named Rosa Bell, addressed to “The People of the Future.” She wrote: “I hope you don’t have to go to a colored school anymore. I hope you can go anywhere. I hope you know how hard we fought for this.” When the letter was read aloud at the reopening ceremony, the entire room fell silent. A woman in the back stood up and said, “That’s my mother.” Rosa Bell had passed away in 2003. Her daughter had never known the letter existed.

FAQs

Is the Fifth Street School open to the public every day?

No. The building is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and major holidays. Always check the official website before visiting.

Can I bring a group or school class?

Yes. Groups of 10 or more must schedule a visit in advance. Educational groups receive priority and may be eligible for guided programming. Contact the library district for details.

Is there parking nearby?

Yes. Free street parking is available on Fifth Street and adjacent blocks. There is also a public parking lot two blocks away on Ogden Avenue.

Are there restrooms or refreshments available?

Restrooms are available inside the building. There are no vending machines or cafes on-site. Visitors are welcome to bring water. Nearby restaurants and cafes are located on Main Street, a five-minute walk away.

Is the building wheelchair accessible?

The ground floor is fully accessible. The second floor is not currently accessible by elevator due to preservation constraints. However, virtual tours of the upper level are available on the website, and staff can provide detailed audio descriptions.

Can I volunteer at the school?

Yes. Volunteers assist with archiving, event coordination, docent training, and garden maintenance. Training is provided. Visit the website’s “Get Involved” page to apply.

Is there a fee to visit?

No. Admission is free. Donations are accepted to support restoration and educational programs.

Can I donate historical materials?

Yes. The library district accepts photographs, letters, yearbooks, and personal artifacts related to the school. Contact the archivist to arrange a donation appointment.

Why isn’t the school a National Historic Landmark yet?

The building is listed on the Nevada State Register of Historic Places and is under consideration for National Register status. The process is ongoing and requires documentation of its significance in education and civil rights. Community advocacy is helping to advance the nomination.

How can I help preserve the school?

Donate, volunteer, share its story, attend events, and advocate for its inclusion in school curricula. Every action helps ensure its survival.

Conclusion

Walking the Historic Fifth Street School is not a sightseeing excursion. It is an act of witness. It is a pilgrimage through the quiet corridors of resistance, resilience, and revelation. This building does not shout its history—it whispers it. And to hear those whispers, you must slow down. You must listen. You must care.

In a world increasingly defined by speed, distraction, and superficial engagement, the Fifth Street School offers something rare: stillness with meaning. It reminds us that education is not merely about curriculum—it is about character. That community is not a buzzword—it is a covenant. That dignity is not given—it is claimed.

As you leave, carry this truth with you: the children who walked these halls did not have much. But they had each other. They had their teachers. They had their dreams. And because of them, the doors of opportunity slowly, stubbornly, began to open.

So walk with reverence. Learn with humility. Speak with courage. And if you are fortunate enough to return—come back not as a visitor, but as a guardian of the story.

The bricks remember. The walls listen. And the children—those who came before and those who will come after—will never be forgotten.