The Aurora History Museum prides itself in being the largest single provider of arts and culture in the city of Aurora. There are several well-recognized programs that the museum offers that include performing arts, fine arts, history, and public art, as well as special events and festivals. In addition to housing some of the city's rarest and most prized treasures and artifacts, the venue offers regularly scheduled films, lectures and various presentations that are designed to deepen the public's knowledge and appreciation for Aurora and the figures that have contributed to its long and varied history.
Take a walk through the passageways and dirt roads that make up the DeLaney Farm Historic District to get an idea of how significant the tradition of farming has been throughout our nation's history. Although this parcel of land was named a landmark in 1997, you will feel like you've gone back several years when you see the meticulously restored buildings on the farm, including Gully Homestead House. This farm was originally home of the DeLaney family who raised horses, dairy cattle and other livestock.
Get a feel of what it was like to attend class in a two-room schoolhouse when you visit Aurora's Melvin School. The structure, built in 1922 and named a landmark in 1986, originally served the outlying community of Melvin. In 1949, the structure was carefully moved to make room for the Cherry Creek Reservoir. After being used as a tavern for 17 years, the Cherry Creek Historical Society moved the school to its current location on the grounds of Smoky Hill High School where it continues to be owned and maintained by the Cherry Hill School District.
William Smith was an Aurora pioneer who went from raising sheep on his humble property to eventually founding Aurora's Public Schools and donating the land for Del Mar Park. See where this prominent Aurora figure lived by visiting the William Smith House that was built in 1910 and named a landmark in 1986. The home remained in the family until 1983 when Smith's daughter Margaret, passed away. The house is now a privately owned residence, but you can still stroll by and snap photos from the sidewalk.