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El Pueblo Trading Post was the first permanent settlement in what is now Pueblo. It was constructed in 1842 along the banks of the Arkansas River to facilitate fur trade along the Santa Fe Trail, but was then only a decade later after conflict between local Native Americans and fur traders led to the Christmas Tragedy of 1854. Decades later the settlement of Pueblo grew up around the abandoned ruins of the trading post, until it was demolished and its location was lost beneath the rapidly-growing city.

El Pueblo History Museum has been in operation since 1959, and currently occupies the site of the historic trading post in downtown Pueblo. The site was rediscovered in 1989, by a class led by anthropology professor William G. Buckles of the University of Southern Colorado (now CSU-Pueblo). Following this discovery, the city and the Colorado Historical Society worked together to relocate the museum to the site. The current museum complex was completed in 2003, and includes the main building containing three exhibits and multiple event rental spaces, a reconstruction of the El Pueblo trading post showcasing life during the mid-19th century, and the Warren G. Buckles Archaeology Pavilion where the excavation site remains open to this day. 

Visitors can see all of this, as well as purchase regional foods and crafts, books on Pueblo, Colorado, and western history, and Colorado souvenirs in the Colorado Proud museum store.
 

Accessibility at El Pueblo History Museum

At El Pueblo History Museum, we want all of our visitors to feel welcome. Here’s how we try to be accessible for everyone.

If you have additional questions you can email us or call 719-583-0453.

Mobility & Entering the Building

Parking is available in our onsite parking lot. Curb cuts from the parking lot to our sidewalk allow for wheelchair access.

Barrier-free doors with push-button entry are located at the museum’s main entrance on and side entrance. The entire indoor facility is on one level.
 

Wheelchairs & Strollers

You may check out a wheelchair or an umbrella-type stroller at the museum store desk; they’re available on a first-come first-served basis. Wheelchair size is standard with a 250 lb. weight capacity. 
 

Accessible Restrooms

All restrooms throughout the museum have an accessible stall. We have a family restroom in the hallway past our exhibits
 

Service Animals

Service animals—animals that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability—are allowed throughout the museum. Pets and emotional support animals are not considered service animals and are not allowed.
 

Group Visit

Groups with disabilities/special needs cost $4 per participant. Caregivers and staff are free.

To make a reservation or get more information, email sean.ayala@state.co.us or call 719-583-0453.
 

Education

Learn more about field trips for Fall 2023 →