The mission of the Telluride Historical Museum is to preserve the rich, colorful and diverse history of the region and to bring history to life through exhibits, programs and education.
We envision a museum that is an indispensable cultural asset which reaches beyond its walls to engage people by bringing history to life.
Built in 1896 as Hall’s Hospital, 201 West Gregory Avenue served as Telluride’s hospital until 1964 when, due to a diminishing population, the hospital was closed. In 1966 the hospital re-opened as the Telluride Historical Museum.
Through the generosity of the American Legion Post and the Fairlamb Family, the town was able to acquire the historic building. In 1995, part of the exterior masonry crumbled, but Telluride voters elected to allocate public funds for restoration of the building. Seven years and $2 million later, the Telluride Historical Museum re-opened with a reinforced structure and a new blueprint for showcasing exhibits.
National Historic Landmark District:
While there are more than 87,000 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places – which is America’s official list of historic properties – only about 3% of those are National Historic Landmarks. Monticello, Mount Vernon, the homes of Kit Carson and Martin Luther King Jr., the Alamo, the Apollo Mission Control Center, and more are all National Historic Landmarks.
Each of these Landmarks is an exceptional representation of an important chapter of American history. The town of Telluride joined this preeminent group of America’s most special places in 1961, when it was designated a National Historic Landmark as one of the most important places associated with mining history in the United States. Hall’s Hospital, now the home of the Telluride Historical Museum, was built in 1896 and is one of the oldest buildings in Telluride. It is also designated as a National Historic Landmark and is a contributing structure to the Town’s status as a National Historic Landmark District.
To learn more about Telluride’s Historic Landmark District status, visit the Town of Telluride’s Web site.
Governance:
History is an integral part of the character of this community, and we are grateful for the wide-ranging support we have received through the years. Our Amazing volunteer Board of Directors keeps us relevant, active, and mindful of the present, as we remember and celebrate our collective past.
We welcome community feedback and involvement. Call us anytime at (970) 728-3344.
For objective information on all non-profits, including the Telluride Historical Museum, visit GuideStar.
