Colorado State Register of Historic Properties facts for kids
The Colorado State Register of Historic Properties is a special list of important places and things in Colorado. It's like a hall of fame for buildings, old towns, and even places where ancient people lived! This list helps protect these amazing spots so future generations can learn from them.
History Colorado, a state organization, manages this register. They keep track of all the historic buildings, structures, objects, and even whole neighborhoods that are special. To get on this list, a place needs to be nominated to History Colorado. If a historic site in Colorado is also added to the National Register of Historic Places, it automatically joins the Colorado State Register too.
There are over 1,700 places on the state register. More than 1,300 of these are also listed on the national register, showing how truly important they are!
Contents
What Makes a Place Historic?
To be added to the Colorado State Register, a property must meet certain requirements. These rules help decide if a place is truly special and worth protecting.
Important History Connections
A place can be listed if it's connected to big events that helped shape history. For example, a building where an important law was signed, or a battlefield where a major event happened.
Famous People's Homes
Properties linked to people who were very important in history can also be included. Think of the homes of famous leaders, artists, or scientists.
Unique Designs or Building Styles
Some places are special because of their unique design or how they were built. This could be a building that shows a certain style from a long time ago, or a structure built using old methods.
Important Locations
A property might be important because of its location. This could be a place that was a key trading spot, a significant landmark, or a site with special natural features.
Hidden Discoveries
Sometimes, a place is added because it might hold secrets from the past. This includes sites where archaeologists could find important clues about ancient people or early settlers.
Properties on the Colorado State Register might also be recognized in other ways. They could be on the National Register of Historic Places, be a National Historic Landmark (which is a very high honor!), or be part of a larger Historic District.
Who Manages the Register?
The Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation is a part of History Colorado. This office is in charge of looking after the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties. They also manage other programs that help protect Colorado's amazing history.
