National Register of Historic Places listings in Saguache County, Colorado facts for kids
Welcome to Saguache County, Colorado! This area is full of interesting history, and many of its special places are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Think of this list as a special hall of fame for buildings, sites, and objects that are important to American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture.
In Saguache County, there are 9 amazing places that have earned a spot on this important list. These sites help us learn about the past and understand how people lived long ago. Let's explore some of these historic treasures!
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's historic places worth saving. It's like a special honor roll for buildings, structures, objects, sites, and districts that are important to the history of the United States. When a place is added to the Register, it means it's recognized for its unique story and value. This helps protect it for future generations to enjoy and learn from.
Amazing Places in Saguache County
Here are some of the cool historic spots you can find in Saguache County:
Capilla de San Juan Bautista
This beautiful chapel, located northwest of La Garita, was added to the National Register on February 8, 1980. Capilla de San Juan Bautista means "Chapel of Saint John the Baptist" in Spanish. It's a significant religious building that tells a story about the early communities in the area.
Carnero Creek Pictographs
The Carnero Creek Pictographs are ancient rock paintings found near La Garita. These amazing artworks were created by early people and offer clues about their lives and beliefs. Because they are so old and special, their exact location is kept private to protect them. They were listed on June 5, 1975.
Crestone School
The Crestone School, found on Cottonwood Street and Carbonate Avenue in Crestone, became a historic site on January 9, 1986. This building once served as a place of learning for many students in the community. It stands as a reminder of education in the past.
First Baptist Church of Moffat
Located at 401 Lincoln Avenue in Moffat, the First Baptist Church was added to the Register on July 24, 2008. This church is a great example of early 20th-century architecture, especially its unique ornamental concrete block design. It has been a central part of the Moffat community for many years.
Indian Grove (Mosca, Colorado)
Indian Grove is another historic site near Mosca whose exact address is restricted to protect it. This site was recognized on March 24, 2000, for its historical importance. It likely holds clues about the lives of Native American people who lived in this region long ago.
Saguache Downtown Historic District
The heart of Saguache, specifically the 300 and 400 blocks of 4th Street, is recognized as a historic district. This area was listed on July 25, 2014. It includes many old buildings that show what the town looked like in its early days. Walking through it is like taking a step back in time!
Saguache Flour Mill
West of Saguache, you'll find the Saguache Flour Mill, which joined the National Register on September 18, 1978. Mills like this were super important in the past because they processed grain into flour, a basic food. This mill played a big role in feeding the local community.
Saguache School and Jail Buildings
These two historic buildings, located near U.S. Highway 285 and San Juan Avenue in Saguache, were listed on May 2, 1975. It's interesting to think about a time when a school and a jail were located so close together! They represent important parts of the town's early public services.
Sargents Water Tank, Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, Western Line
In Sargents, at 45 Front Street, stands the Sargents Water Tank. This structure was added to the Register on August 12, 2010. It's a cool reminder of the old railroad days. Water tanks were essential for steam trains, providing the water they needed to run across the country. This tank tells a story of how trains helped connect communities in Colorado.
