Welcome to Historic Elizabeth, CO
Historic Preservation in Elizabeth
The Elizabeth Historic Advisory Board, established in 1998 and reenacted in 2015, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating our town's rich architectural and cultural heritage. Our mission encompasses both tangible and intangible history – from safeguarding historic structures to documenting community stories through our oral history program.
As a board recognized within a Certified Local Government since 2015, we advise the Town Board on historic preservation matters, recommend properties for local landmark designation, review proposed alterations to historic properties, educate the public about Elizabeth's history, and assist in developing preservation plans and policies.
We strive to protect the historic buildings that define Elizabeth's unique identity, particularly in Old Town and the proposed Main Street Historic District, while also capturing and sharing the lived experiences of our residents. By balancing architectural preservation with cultural documentation, we aim to provide a comprehensive view of Elizabeth's legacy.
Elizabeth Through Time
Elizabeth, Colorado, nestled in the heart of the Palmer Divide, boasts a history as rich and diverse as the landscape itself. Founded in 1882 and officially incorporated in 1890, Elizabeth's story is one of pioneer spirit, community resilience, and careful preservation of its Western heritage.
Early Settlement and the Pineries
In the mid-19th century, the area now known as Elizabeth was valued for its abundant natural resources. Early settlers named the region "the Divide" due to its location on the Palmer Divide, and its bountiful forests became known as "the Pineries." The first wave of pioneers included those harvesting trees to fuel Denver's rapid growth, followed by homesteaders and farmers attracted by the region's fertile soil and ample water supply.
In the mid-19th century, the area now known as Elizabeth was valued for its abundant natural resources. Early settlers named the region "the Divide" due to its location on the Palmer Divide, and its bountiful forests became known as "the Pineries." The first wave of pioneers included those harvesting trees to fuel Denver's rapid growth, followed by homesteaders and farmers attracted by the region's fertile soil and ample water supply.
The Railroad Era
The arrival of the Denver & New Orleans Railroad in 1882 marked a pivotal moment in Elizabeth's development. The railroad brought an influx of new settlers and economic opportunities, rapidly transforming Elizabeth from a quiet rural area into a bustling hub for farming and ranching services. The 1882 Section House, built by the railroad and still standing today, serves as a tangible link to this transformative era.
Community Growth and Civic Pride
As Elizabeth grew, its citizens embraced democratic institutions with enthusiasm. They elected their first leaders, established schools, and built the foundations of local government. The 1890 Huber-Carlson Building (239 Main Street) stands as a testament to the town's early commercial development and the entrepreneurial spirit of its founders.
20th Century Development
Throughout the 20th century, Elizabeth carefully balanced growth with the preservation of its small-town character. Despite the pressures of modernization, many historic commercial buildings on Main Street, Grant Street, and Kiowa Avenue have been preserved through local initiative and traditional frugality.
Preservation Efforts
Elizabeth's citizens have consistently demonstrated their commitment to preserving the town's unique character:
- In 1995, the Huber-Carlson Building was listed on the State Register of Historic Properties.
- In 1998, Elizabeth passed a preservation ordinance and created its Historic Advisory Board.
- In 2002, the 1882 Section House was restored with a State Historical Fund grant.
- In 2012, interpretive plaques were installed along Main Street, highlighting historic buildings.
- In 2015, Elizabeth was designated an official Main Street city and a Certified Local Government.
- In 2023, the First National Bank (188 S Main St) was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Elizabeth Today
While now home to many commuters to metropolitan Denver, Elizabeth retains its strong connection to its agricultural roots and frontier past. The town continues to balance growth with preservation, maintaining a townscape that would still be recognizable to its early pioneers. Historic buildings stand alongside modern developments, creating a unique blend of old and new that characterizes Elizabeth's approach to progress.
The Historic Advisory Board, established in 1998 and reenacted in 2015, plays a crucial role in preserving Elizabeth's heritage. Through ongoing initiatives, surveys, and community engagement, the Board ensures that Elizabeth's multifaceted past continues to shape its vibrant future.
From its origins as a small settlement in the Pineries to its current status as a thriving town with a preserved historic core, Elizabeth's journey reflects the broader story of Colorado's development. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the American West and the power of community in shaping and preserving a shared heritage.