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
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. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore local history through carefully curated exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs
Website: coloradorailroadmuseum.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
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. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore local history through carefully curated exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs
Website: mollybrown.org
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. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore local history through carefully curated exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs
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
Mesa Verde Museum Association
Location: Mancos, 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. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore local history through carefully curated exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs
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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