Historic Preservation

Historic preservation is an endeavor that seeks to preserve, conserve and protect buildings, objects, landscapes or other artifacts of historical significance.  San Juan County, through its shared railroad and mining past is dotted with sites and structures that tell the story of early settlement and landmark innovation.

National Historic Landmark

National Historic Landmarks are nationally significant historic places designated by the Secretary of the Interior because they possess exceptional value or quality in illustrating or interpreting the heritage of the United States. Today, fewer than 2,500 historic places bear this national distinction. 

Of the 22 in Colorado, San Juan County is home to 3, the Silverton Historic District, Shenandoah Dives (Mayflower) Mill, and the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Picture
Grand Imperial Hottel (1890-1895?) courtesy of the Western History/Genealogy Dept., Denver Public Library. x-1754

Historic Development Review

When changes are sought on historic structures or sites, it triggers a review for historic resources. This step is designed to help preserve Silverton's and San Juan County's historic character, allow citizens to comment on changes, and for owners of eligible properties to hear about available financial incentives.

Silverton Historic Map

This Historic Resource Map shows where some of the historic and cultural resources were.

Please click on the map below to view.

Picture
courtesy of the San Juan County Historical Society