History of Irving School

Public School # 6, as Irving was originally known, was built at its present location, 2310 Plum Street, in 1897. The school had 7 classrooms and a room which served as the office.

In August of 1914 Erie's elementary schools were given names. At that time, PS#6 became Washington Irving Elementary School.

On May 5,1925, the voters of Erie approved a bond issue by a vote of almost 3 to 1. Included in the stated purposes of this bond issue, was the addition of 8 classrooms plus an auditorium to Irving, at a cost of $175,000.

A complete renovation of the school was begun in July of 1985, at a projected cost of $3 million. During this process, the school was supplied with a new heating system, new lighting, and plumbing. The classrooms were enlarged and new windows were installed. The auditorium was replaced with a fully equipped Art classroom. To aid disabled visitors and students, a ramp was built, leading to the multipurpose room. An elevator was also installed. The exterior of the school was given a new look, with the old brick facade being covered with stucco. All of this construction was completed while students and teachers remained in the building.

In September of 1986, the “new” Washington Irving Elementary School was dedicated.

September of 1997 was the beginning of the centennial year at Erie's oldest elementary school still in use as a school. The faculty welcomed more than 550 students. Washington Irving Elementary School is looking forward to the new millennium!