The Hartman Castle, a more than century-old structure nestled in Gunnison, Colorado, has been added to the state's Most Endangered Places list. This designation highlights the urgent need for preservation efforts to save the historic building, which has suffered from years of neglect.
A local non-profit, the Hartman Castle Preservation Corp., is now leading the charge to acquire and restore the property, aiming to protect its rich history and bring economic benefits to the Gunnison community.
Key Takeaways
- Hartman Castle is now on Colorado's Most Endangered Places list.
- The building, completed in 1893, needs significant restoration work.
- A non-profit aims to purchase, restore, and repurpose the castle for community benefit.
- Preservation efforts seek to save local history and boost the Gunnison economy.
A Glimpse into Gunnison's Past
The Hartman Castle stands at the junction of the Gunnison River and Tomichi Creek in Western Colorado. Its stone walls and distinctive turret make it a prominent local landmark. Alonzo and Annie Hartman, early white settlers of Gunnison, completed the four-story castle in 1893.
The original design included Italian marble tiles and a grand stairway, features that remain largely intact today. Annie Hartman is credited with designing the castle's unique turret, adding to its architectural significance.
Castle Facts
- Built: Completed in 1893
- Location: Junction of Gunnison River and Tomichi Creek
- Original Features: Italian marble tiles, grand stairway, unique turret
- Floors: Four stories high
The Founders and Their Legacy
Alonzo Hartman was a key figure in Gunnison's founding. He initially arrived in western Colorado as a government employee for the Los Pinos Indian Agency. Later, he and Annie established themselves as successful cattle ranchers and breeders of racehorses.
The castle served as their home and a testament to their contributions to the region. Research by volunteers has revealed more about their lives, particularly Annie's often overlooked story. While Alonzo received many eulogies upon his death, Annie's passing three years later went largely unrecorded.
"Where will all these stories live if we don't have the castle?" said Pam Williams, President of the Hartman Castle Preservation Corp. "The thought of the castle being torn down now makes me tear up."
The Current State of Disrepair
Despite its historic significance, the Hartman Castle has faced challenges over the years. Multiple changes in ownership led to a lack of consistent maintenance. Today, the building requires extensive repairs.
According to Pam Williams, the current condition includes a damaged roof, non-functional plumbing, outdated electrical systems, and a complete absence of a heating system. These issues pose significant threats to the structure's long-term survival.
Colorado's Endangered Places
The Hartman Castle is one of five sites recently added to Colorado's Most Endangered Places list. Other sites include La Morada in San Luis, Old Bent’s Fort near La Junta, the Ordway Pharmacy in Ordway, and the Pearl Theater in Buena Vista.
Katie Peterson, director of the Endangered Places Program at Colorado Preservation Inc., noted that threats to these sites range from owners ready for demolition to "demolition by neglect."
A Community Rises to the Challenge
The Hartman Castle Preservation Corp., a non-profit organization, is at the forefront of efforts to save the castle. Pam Williams, who initially joined for her business experience, now leads the group. She describes the journey as building from "zero," without a pre-existing donor base or wealthy benefactors.
The immediate goal is to raise funds to purchase the property from its current owner. Following the acquisition, the group plans to list the building on Gunnison County’s historic registry. This step is crucial for applying for an acquisition grant from History Colorado.
The Path to Restoration and Revival
Being listed on the Endangered Places program provides vital support. Colorado Preservation Inc. offers assistance with grant writing and access to History Colorado experts. This exposure is expected to significantly boost the preservation efforts.
Beyond preservation, the non-profit envisions the castle becoming an economic driver for Gunnison. Plans include restoring the building to a commercial property, making it suitable for events like weddings. This approach aims to blend historical preservation with economic revitalization.
- Step 1: Raise funds to acquire the property.
- Step 2: List the castle on Gunnison County's historic registry.
- Step 3: Apply for an acquisition grant from History Colorado.
- Step 4: Restore the building for commercial use and public events.
Williams emphasizes the goal of turning the castle into a property that can support itself and contribute to the local economy. The county is reportedly working with the group to facilitate this transformation, ensuring the castle can serve both as a historical landmark and a vibrant community asset.
