Saving Places - Historic Preservation in Colorado

Colorado is fortunate to have a robust historic preservation community - the people who strive to save the old buildings, signs and properties that have significant cultural, historical and educational value on a local, state or national level. 

What many Coloradans may not realize is the wealth of support and resources available to assist in preservation efforts, from education to financial incentives and funding. 

The following are just a few of the organizations that have unique missions, but that all work to promote historic preservation:

Colorado Preservation, Inc.

Founded in 1984, Colorado Preservation, Inc. assists individuals and communities in Colorado with historic preservation advocacy, grant writing, education and outreach. Two of their main programs are the annual Saving Places Conference and the Most Endangered Places Program.

Denver Public Library

The Western History and Genealogy Department here at DPL has resources for those researching the history of Denver buildings and neighborhoods and historical significance. Materials include directories, building permits, maps, assessor records and photos. Get started with our Building History Tutorial!

Historic Denver

Historic Denver focuses on the buildings and neighborhoods that make Denver unique. It supports historic preservationists through lobbying, educational workshops, providing resources for owners of historic properties, and more. Some of its major projects include saving and running the Molly Brown House as a museum, creating the Denver Story Trek walking tours, and Discover Denver, a city-wide building survey in partnership with the City and County of Denver.

History Colorado

History Colorado is the home of the Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, the State Historic Preservation Office, and the Office of the State Archaeologist, which all provide statewide leadership in those areas. The State Historical Fund provides competitive grants for preservation projects across the state. History Colorado also offers services such as workshops, tours, assistance with the National and State Registers, and much more.

So, whether you are just curious about your historic home or are championing a major preservation project, be sure to check out these and other Colorado resources that are here to support you!