Boulder History: The Great Boulder Flood of 1894 In late May of 1894, Boulder, Colorado experienced one of the most devastating natural disasters in its history. Known today as The Great Boulder Flood, this single event reshaped the young town’s infrastructure, changed the course of Boulder Creek, and permanently influenced how the city manages water, […]

The Birth of Colorado Chautauqua In 1898, Boulder residents made a bold decision that would shape the city’s future. They voted to issue bonds and purchase 80 acres at the base of the Flatirons, creating a permanent home for a Chautauqua site. This partnership with Texas educators, known as the Texas–Colorado Chautauqua Association, was part […]

Boulder, Colorado: A Storied Past That Shaped a Vibrant Present When most people think of Boulder, Colorado, they envision towering Flatirons, endless hiking trails, and a laid-back vibe that draws dreamers, climbers, scholars, and seekers from all over. But before Boulder became one of the most desirable places to live in the country, it was […]

Discover Boulder’s Secret Neighborhood: The Story of Floral Park’s “Little Russia” Tucked away near the University of Colorado campus lies one of Boulder’s best-kept architectural secrets—Floral Park Historic District, affectionately nicknamed “Little Russia.” Even longtime Boulderites are surprised to learn about this charming enclave of eight nearly identical homes that date back to the late […]

Nestled in the heart of Colorado lies the iconic city of Boulder, renowned for its breathtaking landscape and rich cultural heritage. At the forefront of this picturesque scenery stand the majestic Flatirons, a series of striking rock formations that have not only shaped the geological history of the region but also hold profound cultural significance. […]

From 1892 Classroom to Visionary City Club—The Legacy of Highland School Hidden behind a lush hedge at the intersection of 9th Street and Arapahoe Avenue stands one of Boulder’s most exquisite architectural gems—the Highland School building. With its red brick façade, ornate Romanesque and Gothic details, and storied past, this former elementary school is now […]

When it comes to historic landmarks in Boulder, Colorado, the Carnegie Library stands out as a timeless gem. Constructed in the early 20th century, this architectural marvel has not only served as a repository of knowledge but also as a symbol of community resilience and enduring legacy. The Carnegie Library in Boulder holds a significant […]

Nestled within the historic Hotel Boulderado in Boulder, Colorado, an ornate marble drinking fountain stands as a testament to the city’s early 20th-century ingenuity. Installed during the hotel’s grand opening on New Year’s Day in 1909, this fountain once provided guests with pure, cold water sourced directly from the city-owned Arapaho Glacier. At that time, […]

Dirty Air in the Arapaho Language? The Boulder Valley was known to the Arapaho tribe as “The People of the Bison,” or “Hinono’eino” in their language. I have not come across any historical references indicating that the Boulder Valley was specifically known as “dirty air” to the Arapaho or any other Native American tribes, contrary […]

Every Boulderite knows that Chautauqua is up on 900 Baseline Road in Boulder, but how did it get there? And what is a Chautauqua anyway? The Chautauqua movement of the late 19th century was an effort to educate rural communities who lacked access to the mass culture being developed in cities. The movement lasted from the […]