Contributing Properties in the Historic Union Ave Commercial District facts for kids

The Union Avenue Historic Commercial District in Pueblo, Colorado, is a special area filled with old and important buildings. These buildings are called "contributing properties" because they help tell the story and show the history of the district. Walking through this area is like taking a trip back in time, where you can see how people lived and worked over a hundred years ago. Many of these buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means they are recognized as important parts of American history and culture.

Exploring Union Avenue's Historic Buildings

The Union Avenue Historic Commercial District is home to many fascinating buildings. Each one has its own story, showing different styles of architecture and important moments from the past. Let's explore some of the most notable ones.

Union Depot: A Grand Old Train Station

The Union Depot at 132 W. B St. was built in 1890. This amazing building is a great example of the Richardsonian Romanesque Revival style. This style uses strong, heavy stone, round arches, and big towers, making buildings look like medieval castles. The Union Depot was one of the biggest and busiest train stations in the entire region. Imagine all the people, trains, and goods that passed through here! It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 1, 1975.

Vail Hotel: A Modern Marvel of Its Time

The Vail Hotel at 217 S. Grand was built in 1910. When it was finished, people thought it was the most modern hotel west of Chicago! This means it had all the newest features and comforts for travelers of that era. Hotels like the Vail were important places for people visiting Pueblo, offering a comfortable stay after a long journey.

Pueblo Memorial Auditorium: A Place for History and Music

The Pueblo Memorial Auditorium at 1 City Hall Pl. was completed in 1919. This building holds a very special place in history because it was the site of President Woodrow Wilson's last public speech. Imagine a U.S. President speaking right there! The auditorium is also famous for having the third largest pipe organ in the United States. Pipe organs are huge musical instruments that can create a wide range of sounds, from soft whispers to booming thunder.

City Hall: A Masterpiece of Design

Also located at 1 City Hall Pl., the City Hall building was constructed in 1917. This building is known for its excellent design and construction, representing the work of a very skilled architect. City Hall is where the local government of Pueblo operates, making important decisions for the community.

Gold Dust Block: An Immigrant's Legacy

The Gold Dust Block at 130 S. Union Ave. was built in 1889. It was originally owned by Andrew McGovern, an immigrant from Ireland. He became a successful merchant in Pueblo and even served on the city council. He was also important in helping to establish the first Catholic Church south of the Arkansas River in Pueblo. This building shows how immigrants helped build and shape the city.

Seabel's: Unique Architecture and a Key Figure

Seabel's, located at 231-233 S. Union Ave., was built in 1881. This building stands out because of its unique architectural style. It's also connected to Delos L. Holden, who was a very important person in Pueblo. He was a successful banker, builder, investor, and politician, showing how one person could contribute to many different parts of the city's growth.

Other Notable Buildings

Many other buildings in the district also contribute to its historic feel:

• The Favorite Tavern (119 W. B St., 1905)
• Quaker Flour Mill (102 S. Oneida St., 1869)
• Joseph H. Edwards Senior Center (230 N. Union Ave., 1887)
• Cope Office Supply (102 S. Victoria Ave., 1893)
• Elmer's Sheet Metal (101-103 S. Union Ave., 1889)
• Boyle Block (105-107 S. Union Ave., 1889)
• Heart-Light Metaphysical Store (124 S. Union Ave., 1905)
• Lamplight Coffee Company (126 S. Union Ave., 1905)
• Military Surplus (206 S. Union Ave., 1891)
• Kushnir Furniture Building (214-216 S. Union Ave., 1900)
• Angelo's Pizza (223 S. Union Ave., 1905)
• A building at 226-228 S. Union Ave. (1887) is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Magpies (229 S. Union Ave., 1896)
• Deremer Block (230 S. Union Ave., 1882)
• McLaughlin Building (330 S. Union Ave., 1891)
• Holmes Hardware (400 S. Union Ave., 1915)
• Pueblo Southwest Trading (104 S. Victoria Ave., 1894)
• The Senate Bar (219 S. Grand Ave., 1904) is known for its connection to two newspapers that used to compete in Pueblo.

These buildings, with their unique histories and styles, make the Union Avenue Historic Commercial District a living museum. They remind us of the people and events that shaped Pueblo into the city it is today.