Colorado is home to over 400 historical societies, preservation organizations, and heritage groups. From major institutions in Denver and throughout the state to small-town societies preserving local heritage, these organizations maintain vital connections to Colorado's rich past.
Featured Historical Societies
History Colorado
Location: Denver, CO
Founded: 1879
Colorado's state historical society operates museums across the state and maintains extensive collections documenting Colorado history from prehistoric times to present, including mining, railroads, and western expansion.
Website: historycolorado.org
Denver Public Library Western History Collection
Location: Denver, CO
Founded: 1935
One of the premier research centers for Western American history, with over 500,000 photographs, extensive manuscript collections, and rare books documenting the American West and Colorado.
Website: history.denverlibrary.org
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Founded: 1903
Preserves the history of the Pikes Peak region through exhibits, collections, and educational programs. Housed in the historic 1903 El Paso County Courthouse.
Website: cspm.org
Molly Brown House Museum
Location: Denver, CO
Founded: 1970
Victorian home of Titanic survivor Margaret 'Molly' Brown. Interprets Denver's Capitol Hill society, mining wealth era, and progressive women's activism.
Website: mollybrown.org
Colorado Railroad Museum
Location: Golden, CO
Founded: 1959
Preserves narrow-gauge and standard railroad equipment that opened Colorado's mountains. Operating collection includes steam locomotives and historic rolling stock.
Website: coloradorailroadmuseum.org
Mesa Verde Museum Association
Location: Mesa Verde National Park, CO
Founded: 1930
Supports research and interpretation of Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. Promotes understanding of Ancient Pueblo peoples who inhabited Mesa Verde 600-1300 CE.
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Founded: 1936
Documents Pikes Peak region history from Native peoples through military development. Housed in restored 1903 El Paso County Courthouse with extensive archives.
History Colorado
Location: Denver, CO
Founded: 1879
Statewide historical organization operating museums and historic sites across Colorado. Collections document mining heritage, Native cultures, pioneer settlement, and modern development.
Website: historycolorado.org
Submit a Society
Know of other Colorado historical societies? Help us expand this directory by submitting organizations you're familiar with.
Submit a Society →Additional Colorado History Resources
- History Colorado - Statewide history organization and museums
- Colorado State Historic Preservation Office - State historic preservation programs
- Colorado State Archives - State archives in Denver