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Along with the rest of the country, Golden struggled with high unemployment in the 1930s. In the early years of the Depression, the Golden community organized some local relief efforts. These scantly-funded programs were intended to help people survive during the winter months. Once Franklin Roosevelt became President in March of 1933, the Federal government began dedicating millions of dollars to relief programs.

The National Recovery Act of 1933 (NRA) introduced government-funded employment on an unprecedented scale. Golden projects included a sewing room, hot lunches in schools, adult education, road-building, dams and reservoirs, public buildings, public art, and many other programs.

91 Years Ago
The January 18, 1934 Colorado Transcript announced that adult education classes would begin at the Golden High School on January 22nd. These classes would be free to participants and were made possible through a Federal “Emergency Educational Relief plan.”

These schools are well attended, furnish employment for many capable teachers and prepare students for steady and more important positions. The teachers are paid by the government as part of the CWA program.

The program would offer bookkeeping, shorthand, typing, and business English classes, but potential students were encouraged to submit other ideas.

Six or more persons who desire instruction in almost any subject may organize and can, upon proper enrollment, secure a capable teacher in that subject and start to work.

The adult education program flourished for the remainder of the Depression years, eventually expanding to include music, drama, arts & crafts, gym, swimming, shorthand, business English, bookkeeping, typing, dance, metalworking, leather-working, and first aid. Classes were held in the schools, the Armory, and at Camp George West.

Highlights