Welcome to the Pioneer Town Museum in Cedaredge, Colorado, where history comes alive across five sprawling acres. Imagine stepping back into a time when wooden boardwalks lined the streets, and the hustle and bustle of a growing frontier town filled the air. Established with the vision of preserving the rich heritage of the late 1800s and early 1900s, the museum is a tapestry of stories and artifacts that paint a vivid picture of life in those bygone days.
The museum was born from the dedication of the Surface Creek Valley Historical Society, who, with the help of countless volunteers and donations, transformed this space into a window to the past. One of the first things that greet you are the three wooden silos, constructed in 1916 and 1917, standing as sentinels at the entrance. These silos are a testament to the ingenuity of early settlers and are listed on the National Historic Registry due to their unique design.
As you wander through the streets of Pioneer Town, you’ll encounter a variety of buildings that echo the daily lives of the pioneers. Picture the old Coalby Store, where townsfolk once gathered to purchase supplies and catch up on the latest news. Feel the chill as you step into the 1907 jailhouse, imagining the stories of those who were once held within its unheated walls.
The museum also houses the Charles States Museum, which features an array of needlepoint art and one of the largest dinosaur footprints ever discovered. This footprint is a reminder of the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this land, a part of the area’s ancient history that fascinates visitors young and old.
Notably, the Sutherland Indian Museum within Pioneer Town showcases a remarkable collection of Native American artifacts, including kachina dolls and arrowheads, honoring the cultural heritage of the region’s first inhabitants.
In addition to its historical exhibits, Pioneer Town serves as a community hub, hosting events and gatherings in its charming Chapel of the Cross. This chapel is not only a place of worship but also a beloved venue for weddings and community events, adding to the town’s vibrant history.
End your visit with a stroll through the gift shop, where pioneer-themed souvenirs await, ensuring you take a piece of history home with you.
