Upcoming Events
Larimer Square Walking Tour with D&F Clock Tower
Larimer Square Walking Tour with D&F Clock Tower
Current Issues
Zuni Power Steam Plant
CURRENT ISSUES Zuni Steam Power Plant Back to archive The Future of Zuni Steam Plant Get Involved Sign a change.org petition created by Sun Valley Coalition to save the building. The Zuni Steam Plant has been a continuous presence on the banks of the South Platte River for over 122 years. Conceived with state-of-the-art equipment and electricity production techniques in 1901, it provided Denver with the energy capacity necessary for the city to expand throughout the 20th century. Its smokestacks towered over the communities of La Alma Lincoln Park, Sun Valley, and other west side neighborhoods long before the Colfax Viaduct or Interstate-25 established it as a more recognizable feature for residents across the entire city. The plant’s legacy, while widely beneficial to the growth of the city, presents a complicated past for those neighbors that have historically been affected by its environmental impacts. However, these communities are steadfast in their belief that the building should be retained and [...]
Historic Denver Installs 3 Plaques for 50 Actions Sites
CURRENT ISSUES Historic Denver Installs 3 Plaques for 50 Actions Sites Back to archive 50 Actions for 50 Places Plaques Installed Progress continues on many of our 50 Action for 50 Places sites. After our community nominated 50 sites with special meaning to the city of Denver, which had not previously received preservation attention, we have been hard at work finding preservation actions for each site. Earlier this month we completed the action for three sites for which storytelling was the primary technique. The former home of Barney Ford, located at 1569 High Street, the former boarding house of Julia Greeley, located at 2911 Walnut, and the former corner store operated as Ben's Super Market by the Okubo Family at 2301 E. 28th all feature beautiful plaques which share these remarkable pieces of Denver history. Barney Ford House, 1569 N. High Street Barney Ford, born into slavery in 1822, freed himself and eventually became a successful African American businessman [...]
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 [...]
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.
