Thank you for subscribing to our newsletters, your guide to key events and issues at Historic Denver and the Molly Brown House Museum. Your support empowers us to preserve and celebrate our city's cultural landmarks and historic places! Looking to deepen your involvement? |
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Proposed Updates to Window & Door Design Guidelines Now Available for Public Review Denver Landmark Preservation has released a public review draft of proposed updates to the Design Guidelines for Denver Landmark Structures and Districts. The revisions include updated guidance for window and door replacements and a reorganized introductory chapter. These changes were informed by community input collected in 2023 through public meetings, an online survey, and a discussion at the Landmark Preservation Commission. The updated guidelines aim to provide greater flexibility for replacing common windows and doors—particularly on side and rear elevations—while encouraging the continued preservation of “character” windows and front doors. Character features are defined as those that help express the architectural style or period of a building and are typically located on prominent façades. The draft also clarifies guidance for altering window openings, adding egress windows, and in some cases, allows for broader material options. In addition to the replacement guidelines, the proposed updates to the introductory chapter streamline the content for a more logical reading order and include minor simplifications to support better usability by homeowners, contractors, and preservation staff. The public comment period is open through July 7, 2025, and community feedback is strongly encouraged. A final draft is expected to go before the Landmark Preservation Commission for review and a public hearing this fall. View and comment on the draft here:
https://denvercpd.konveio.com/denver-landmark-preservation-design-guidelines-updates-public-review-draft Learn more about the full update process here:
denvergov.org/landmark-design-guidelines-update |
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Experience Ironworks: A Striking Space for Sips and Stories
Cocktails in Cool Places – July Edition Join Historic Denver for the next stop in our beloved Cocktails in Cool Places series on Wednesday, July 15, at 5:30 PM, inside one of the city’s most compelling industrial landmarks — the Ironworks building at Colfax and Larimer. This is a rare chance to step inside a restored piece of Denver’s working past — now an elegant venue with a modern edge. Built in 1903, the Ironworks building was once the beating heart of the Midwest Steel and Ironworks Company, a powerhouse that helped shape Colorado’s infrastructure. Drafting plans for icons like the Royal Gorge Bridge, Moffat Tunnel, and Denver’s City and County Building, this site played a vital role in the state’s development. The Ironworks building, expanded in the 1930s and 1950s, still bears the rich layers of its Art Deco and early industrial heritage — from exposed brick and turreted towers to original hardwoods and glamorous mid-century details. As you explore the space during the event, you'll enjoy curated cocktails and an evening filled with conversation, community, and history. In partnership with the Rocky Mountain Jewish Historical Society and Beck Archives, we’ll also highlight the early Jewish community that helped shape the surrounding West Colfax neighborhood. All proceeds support Historic Denver’s mission to preserve the places that make our city unique. Space is limited–reserve your tickets and be part of this unforgettable summer evening! |
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Help Stop the Overpass Threatening Civic Center Park The State has officially filed permits to build a controversial elevated pedestrian overpass across Lincoln Street—putting Civic Center Park, a National Historic Landmark, at risk. This project would obstruct historic views, duplicate existing crossings, and damage the park’s carefully designed civic landscape. Despite widespread opposition, the proposal is now moving forward. We need your help! Add your name to the petition and help protect one of Denver’s most important public spaces. Then share the link with friends and family. Learn more: https://historicdenver.org/lincoln-bridge/ |
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Explore Queer Capitol Hill: A Walking Tour June is Pride Month—join us for a compelling exploration of Queer Capitol Hill with a tour developed by David Duffield, co-founder and coordinator of the Center LGBTQ History Project for Colorado on Colfax. This tour will take guests through Bachelor’s Row, highlighting how single apartments offered privacy for a closeted community. We’ll explore how public spaces served as places of refuge and connection for LGBTQ people—and how laws such as anti-crossdressing ordinances and R-0 zoning kept queer Denver heavily policed and segregated. Finally, we’ll visit spaces of liberation: the first headquarters of the Gay Coalition of Denver, apartments used by the Denver Area Mattachine Society, and the original offices of the Gay Community Center of Colorado. From the streets and parks to private interiors, Capitol Hill has long been home to the hearts and activism of generations of queer people—a legacy shaped by resistance, resilience, and place. Tours offered on June 21, 24, as well as July 19 and August 30. |
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Scamper into Summer on the High Line Canal – June 25 Join our friends at the High Line Canal Conservancy for a summer evening full of community, nature, and fun! The third annual High Line Canal Summer Scamper takes place Tuesday, June 25, from 5 to 8 PM at Bible Park in Denver. The event kicks off with a free Ditch Dash for kids 8 and under, followed by a family-friendly 5K race open to all ages and abilities—whether you’re running, walking, or just taking in the view. After the race, stick around for Canal Summer Fest, featuring live music, local food trucks, drinks, booths, and summer nature-themed activities for all ages. It's a wonderful way to experience the community spirit that surrounds this beloved 71-mile greenway—and to support efforts to preserve and enhance it for future generations. Register today at summerscamper5k.com. Want to save a few bucks? Use code PARTNER5 for $5 off individual registration, courtesy of the Conservancy. Historic Denver is proud to help spread the word about this community celebration of a cherished landscape—and we hope to see some of you out there enjoying a perfect summer evening along the Canal! |
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Limited Tickets Remain for 1340 Penn / After Hours Things are blooming at the Molly Brown House Museum this June as we take a fragrant detour into the world of Gilded Age florals. Join us this Thursday, June 19 at 6:30 PM for Art on Penn, a hands-on flower arranging evening inspired by the blooms that once adorned parlors and posies in Margaret Brown’s time. It’s a fitting theme, as our long-awaited landscaping project—made possible by the generosity of our members and supporters—is now underway and beginning to take shape. Come enjoy the beauty inside and out as you sip a cocktail and explore the grounds in bloom! We’ll explore the secret symbolism of flowers, uncover the floral fads of the early 1900s, and then get creative with an arrangement of your own—supplies and guidance provided. Whether you’re channeling your inner florist or just looking for a relaxing and fragrant evening out, this event offers the perfect blend of history, creativity, and seasonal charm. Your ticket includes all materials, light snacks, and your choice of a signature cocktail (21+) or mocktail. Margaret’s 1340 Penn After Hours events are filled with chilling tales and taboo topics! From sassy suffragists to soulful spirits, see 1340 Penn in a whole new light! |
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Support Ongoing Masonry Restoration at the Molly Brown House For over a month, skilled craftspeople have been working to repair mortar, stabilize chimneys, and restore the 1889 stone façade. We’ve now raised $20,749 toward our $45,000 goal — thank you to all our generous supporters! Help us keep the momentum going with a gift today! |
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NOT A CURRENT MEMBER? JOIN/RENEW! | | | Membership with Historic Denver and the Molly Brown House Museum is an integral part of our mission, allowing us to continue the important work of protecting our city’s irreplaceable cultural touchstones. Empower us to advocate for the historic buildings and landscapes that tell Denver’s diverse story! | | |
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Historic Denver 1420 Ogden Street, Ste. 202 Denver, CO 80218 (303) 534-5288 |
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