Dexter Cabin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Dexter Cabin
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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The cabin in 2011.
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Location | 912 Harrison Avenue, Leadville, Colorado, United States |
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Built | 1879 |
NRHP reference No. | 70000163 |
Added to NRHP | August 25, 1970 |
The Dexter Cabin is a special historic building in Leadville, Colorado. It was once the home and hunting lodge of a wealthy businessman named James V. Dexter. Even though it looks like a simple cabin from the outside, its inside is very fancy and decorated. People have called it "surprisingly plush" and "incredibly ornate."
Today, Dexter Cabin is a Colorado State Historic Site. This means it's an important place protected by the state. It's now a museum run by History Colorado, which helps people learn about the state's past. The cabin is located right next to another historic building called Healy House. Both are part of the Leadville Historic District, which is a very important historical area in the United States.
Dexter Cabin was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. This list includes places that are important to American history. The cabin was moved to its current spot next to Healy House so visitors can easily see both historic buildings.
Who Was James V. Dexter?
James V. Dexter was a successful businessman and investor in the late 1800s. He made his money in the mining industry, which was very big in Colorado at that time. He used Dexter Cabin as a place to live and as a lodge for hunting trips.
A Look Inside Dexter Cabin
The inside of Dexter Cabin is quite different from what you might expect. Instead of a simple, rustic cabin, it has elegant finishes and detailed decorations. This shows how wealthy James V. Dexter was and how he liked to live comfortably, even in a hunting lodge. The fancy interior makes the cabin unique and interesting to visit.
Dexter Cabin as a Museum
As a museum, Dexter Cabin helps visitors imagine what life was like for wealthy people in Leadville during the mining boom. You can explore the rooms and see the special details that made it such a luxurious place. Visiting the cabin is a great way to learn about Colorado's history and the people who shaped it.