Upcoming Events
A Walk Down The Wall Street of the West: Denver’s 17th Street
Baker Neighborhood Walking Tour
Mansions of Quality Hill
Baker Neighborhood Walking Tour
Current Issues
1600 & 1618 East Colfax
CURRENT ISSUES 1600 & 1618 E. Colfax Ave. Back to archive Opposing Demolition of 1600 & 1618 East Colfax Avenue 1600 and 1618 East Colfax have been unoccupied for five years, with little attempt made by the owner of the buildings to secure and maintain them. In March 2024, a fire broke out in 1600 East Colfax, damaging the interior. 1618 East Colfax was largely unharmed. In June, the property owner argued that the buildings are not historic and sought permission from the Landmark Preservation Commission to demolish them. This was unanimously rejected by the commission. The property owner has cited public health and safety concerns as a reason to demolish 1600 and 1618 East Colfax. The current condition of the buildings and the safety concerns they are undeniably creating in the surrounding area are a direct result of the property owner failing to adequately secure and protect the structures. For further reading, check [...]
Historic Denver Launches New Logo After Over 30 Years
CURRENT ISSUES Historic Denver Introduces New Logo After More Than 30 Years Back to archive New Logo, Renewed Commitment Historic Denver launched its first new logo in over 30 years, the fourth in the non-profit’s 54-year history. Historic Denver President & CEO John Deffenbaugh, said: “Inspired by the shape of the city itself, the logo is intended to show that Historic Denver exists to champion the stories of all of Denver's diverse communities. Our tag line states, "preservation for the people," and that includes those communities that have been historically underrepresented in Denver and in historic building preservation.” The pattern within the city outline is an abstraction of the city grid featuring the South Platte River, the Cherry Creek, and Park Avenue as Denver's first parkway. The confluence of the river and creek is celebrated to acknowledge the peoples and nations who inhabited this land for generations before the establishment of the city that has come to be known as Denver. The [...]
UPDATE: Compromise Reached to Preserve Part of El Chapultepec Building
CURRENT ISSUES UPDATE: Compromise Reached to Preserve Part of El Chapultepec Building Back to archive UPDATE: Historic Denver and Monfort Companies Reach Compromise to Preserve Portion of Former El Chapultepec Building at 1962 Market Historic Denver and Monfort Companies are pleased to announce a significant step forward in the redevelopment of the former El Chapultepec building at 1962 Market Street. Following a series of productive meetings over the past three months, a compromise has been reached that honors the historic and cultural significance of the property while introducing thoughtful modern enhancements. Historic Denver and Monfort Companies have been working closely with local architects Chris Shears (SAR+) and Richard Farley (Richard Farley Urban Design), alongside project architect Peter Koliopoulos (Circle West Architects), to ensure that the vision of all parties is respected and fully realized. This collaboration has led to a design solution that meets community needs and operational goals, promising to revitalize the area while preserving its heritage. Key [...]
5013 Montview
CURRENT ISSUES 5013 Montview Back to archive Update After searching for a prospective buyer for this property, unfortunately none was found. It is the current plan for the building to replaced with a new residence, and our hope is the new building will reflect some of the area's wonderful past. Calling All Prospective Home Buyers The former home of Harry Huffman, a 1930s Denver theater mogul and one of Montview Boulevard's original grand homes is under threat of demolition. After the owners filed for a demolition permit, the City and County of Denver flagged the home as a potential Landmark. A mediation period was started between the owners and concerned community members. The owners agreed to list the home for sale to seek a buyer who will restore it and give it a new lease on life. Why It Matters The house was recognized for its significance as Harry Huffman's home, a great example of Renaissance Revival Style, for [...]
Historic Denver names John Deffenbaugh new CEO
CURRENT ISSUES Historic Denver Names John Deffenbaugh CEO Back to archive Historic Denver names John Deffenbaugh new CEO Historic Denver, Inc. today named John Deffenbaugh its president and CEO. Deffenbaugh will oversee advocacy and operations for the 53-year-old nonprofit and its flagship property, the Molly Brown House Museum. Deffenbaugh brings nearly 20 years of experience on architectural, urban and creative design projects in the United States and the U.K., including past positions with city governments, design consultancies and property-ownership teams. “John is a dynamic leader and a thoughtful urbanist with a passion for historic preservation and community engagement,” said John Lucero, chair of the Historic Denver Board of Trustees. “Historic Denver is a community-driven voice for historic places, and a leader in place-based storytelling, preservation and education. We are thrilled to bring him on to lead our organization at this pivotal time in our city.” In his new role, Deffenbaugh intends to focus the organization on sensitive, targeted and [...]
Candidates talk preservation, growth in lead-up to April election
CURRENT ISSUES Denver Municipal Election Back to archive Mayor and Council Candidates on Preservation, Growth The 2023 municipal election is upon us, with ballots due by 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4. Historic Denver does not endorse any candidate. However, we are keenly aware of the influence a mayor and city council members can have on policies related to our built environment and our historic and cultural treasures, and we are watching the election closely. With this in mind, Historic Denver queried the candidates regarding the issues we know you care about, such as preservation, sustainability, and the intersection of historic buildings and affordable housing. With support from the CU-Denver College of Architecture and Planning's "Politics of Preservation" class, Historic Denver sent questions to those running for city council and mayor, using their publicly available email addresses. Recipients received the questionnaire, as well as two reminder emails, over a 10-day period. Of the 17 candidates for mayor and 40 [...]
Our Story, Our Work
In the 1970s, Denver’s historic structures faced demolition in alarming numbers. In true pioneer spirit, a group of citizens created Historic Denver Inc. to save one of our city’s most celebrated historic homes: the Molly Brown House Museum. This flagship example of our mission allows us to connect the past and present. With the support of our members, our work to safeguard the soul of the city continues at the Museum, through our diverse and engaging programs, technical resources, and through our advocacy for the historic places you love.
Engage and Experience
Step into Historic Denver through our programs, events and exhibits that educate, entertain and inspire community engagement. Explore a historic neighborhood on our Walking Tours. Take a guided tour or see an exhibit at our Molly Brown House Museum. Attend a Re(garding) Denver forum to discuss current preservation topics. Volunteer for our Discover Denver survey to learn about our city’s unique buildings. Support Historic Denver and the Museum at our Annual Awards Dinner. Through our extensive offerings, you’ll learn the full story of our city’s past and the challenges facing its preservation today.
Saving Places
Historic Denver works with property owners, neighborhoods and partners to create preservation solutions that sustain and strengthen our communities. Take advantage of our experience and expertise to care for your historic property or launch your community preservation project. We offer guidance in the form of technical assistance, contacts, tools and incentives. Our Action Fund catalyzes innovative community projects that enhance Denver’s authentic flavor. Follow our Current Issues page to see the latest news about our advocacy work, or peruse our easements, preservation projects, historic district designation, and demolition review information. Need help at home? We offer a Contractor Resource list exclusively for our members.
