Press Release

State Historical Fund awards over $4.5 million in grants to preserve Colorado’s past and invest in its future

DENVER (August 8, 2017)—The History Colorado State Historical Fund (SHF) is awarding $4,568,138 in historic preservation grants to projects across Colorado. These grants provide essential funding for projects such as historic structure assessments, education programs, archaeological projects, and physical work to preserve and restore historic buildings and places. SHF grants help communities preserve their historic resources and have a significant economic impact.

“Colorado recognizes the value of its historic resources, and our grant program is proof of that,” Cynthia Nieb, director of the State Historical Fund said. “Every SHF grant helps preserve our amazing past while investing in our future. Communities looking for opportunities should focus on their historic resources—buildings and places that represent their heritage—and reach out to us to see if we can help.”

SHF funds preservation projects that have immense public benefit for their communities. The latest grants include:

Argo Tunnel and Mill, Idaho Springs: $15,436 for construction documents to plan for the preservation of this mining boom facility that is a critical part of the Idaho Springs viewshed. The site will be a significant addition to the city’s heritage tourism resources.

Denver & Rio Grande Antonito Depot, Antonito: $74,806 for exterior rehabilitation of one of Colorado’s Most Endangered Places as listed by Colorado Preservation, Inc. This resource is the focal point for Antonito’s local revitalization plan.

Haynie Site, Cortez: $199,991 for the Northern Chaco Outliers Project analysis of the largest concentration of great houses in Colorado. The work done at the Haynie site will significantly contribute to the understanding of Colorado’s archaeological history.

Huerfano County Courthouse and Jail, Walsenburg: $200,000 for full masonry restoration on the east elevation and tower for this critical community and local government resource.

Reynolds Ranch / Hagen Farmhouse / Twin Oaks Ranch, Colorado Springs: $108,389 for the second phase exterior restoration and roof replacement. The farmhouse will eventually feature interpretive signage, be open to tours, and be available as an event space.

San Juan County Hospital, Silverton: $199,360 to complete the interior restoration and rehabilitation of the upper levels of Silverton’s only public health facility.

World’s Wonder View Tower, Genoa: $14,412 for a historic structure assessment of the iconic and historic tourist attraction. This is the initial phase of a comprehensive restoration plan to utilize this unique resource.

To see a complete list of projects funded through the 18-M1 and 18-01 grant round, please visit www.historycolorado.org/grants/state-historical-fund-grants.

The deadline for the next round of grant applications is Sunday, October 1 at 11:59 p.m. Nonprofit organizations and government entities interested in historic preservation projects that adhere to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties are encouraged to apply. SHF outreach specialists are available and eager to work with applicants to help them craft competitive applications. To contact SHF staff, please visit www.h-co.org/SHFgrants or call (303) 866-2825.