Lewis Mill

Year Listed: 1998
County: San Miguel County
Construction Date: 1907
Threat When Listed: Demolition by Neglect – Vacant
Status: SAVE
 

Located in a National Historic Landmark District at an elevation of over 12,000 feet, this circa 1907 metal processing mill is one of the most scenic in Colorado. Its remote location saved its interior contents from metal salvage programs carried out during World War II.  The mill stands as one of a few remaining mills with its original machinery intact. during World War II.

Colorado Preservation, Inc. worked to convince the current owners that the building is a special Colorado treasure that should be stabilized.  Listing the mill as endangered generated numerous inquiries from local architects, contractors, photographers, and the International Millwright Society.  Tremendous partnership efforts by Idarado Mining Company, the towns of Mountain Village and Telluride, the San Miguel County Historical Commission, and the State Historical Fund resulted in stabilization in 2001. Due to the remote location of the site, helicopters had to fly in construction material, and workers had to four-wheel and/or hike to get to work.

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Preservation for a Changing Colorado

Historic preservation has a direct economic benefit to communities and Colorado! Take a look at the 2017 study, which considered the ways adaption of historic places has a direct financial effect on the state.

This updated, most resent study, was the result of a partnership between Colorado Preservation, Inc and History Colorado, funded by a grant from History Colorado's State Historical Fund. Prepared by Clarion Associates, the new report document the economic benefits of rehabilitation projects, analyzes property values and neighborhood stability in local historic districts, and summarizes the increasing impact of heritage tourism, private preservation development and the success of Colorado’s Main Street program.

In a key finding, researchers determined that for every $1 million spent on historic preservation in Colorado it produced $1.03 million in additional spending, 14 new jobs, and $636,700 in increased household incomes across the state!

The 2017 report also considers the important role preservation plays in helping Coloradans provide new spaces for creative communities and co-working, create and sustain meaningful places, responds to the state’s changing demographics, and addresses climate concerns.

Click Here to see download and read the full report, "Preservation for a Changing Colorado".