Abo Elementary School, Underground school and fallout shelter in Artesia, United States
The concrete structure features a 21-inch thick roof that serves as a playground, three secure entrances, and 18 classrooms spread across 28 rooms.
Built in 1962 during the Cold War, Abo Elementary School became the first underground educational facility in the United States designed as a nuclear fallout shelter.
The facility influenced American education by demonstrating that students performed equally well in underground classrooms compared to traditional above-ground settings.
The building contains multiple water wells, air filtration systems, emergency power generators, and storage space for supplies to accommodate 2,160 people.
The structure maintained separate mechanical systems for regular school operations and emergency scenarios, including decontamination showers at each entrance.
Location: Artesia
Inception: 1962
GPS coordinates: 32.83250,-104.41917
Latest update: May 13, 2025 21:19
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