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Montrose County Historical Museum: A Journey Through Time

Discover Montrose County's past at the Historical Museum: explore pioneer life, railroad history, and local heritage in a historic Denver & Rio Grande Depot.

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Housed in the historic 1912 Denver & Rio Grande Depot, the Montrose County Historical Museum showcases the rich history of the Uncompahgre Valley and Montrose County. Explore exhibits ranging from Native American artifacts to pioneer زندگی, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the region.

A brief summary to Montrose County Historical Museum

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website or call ahead for current hours of operation, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum's indoor and outdoor exhibits.
  • Visit the museum's gift shop for unique souvenirs and books about local history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Montrose County Historical Museum is located in downtown Montrose at 21 N Rio Grande Ave. From the intersection of Main Street and Townsend Avenue, walk west for a few blocks on Main Street, then turn right onto Rio Grande Avenue. The museum will be on your left. Walking time is approximately 5-10 minutes. Downtown parking is available in public lots and along the streets.

  • Public Transport

    All Points Transit provides public transportation services in Montrose. Check the All Points Transit website or call for route and schedule information. The bus stops near the museum on Rio Grande Avenue. A single ride fare is free.

  • Driving

    The Montrose County Historical Museum is located at 21 N Rio Grande Ave in downtown Montrose. From U.S. Highway 50, turn north onto Townsend Avenue, then turn left onto Main Street. Turn right onto Rio Grande Avenue. The museum will be on your left. Parking is available on the street and in nearby public lots. Metered parking costs around $1 per hour, with free parking available for a limited time.

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Discover more about Montrose County Historical Museum

Step back in time at the Montrose County Historical Museum, located in the heart of downtown Montrose. Founded in 1964, the museum is housed in the beautifully preserved Denver & Rio Grande Depot, a landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum's exhibits offer a comprehensive look at the history of Montrose County, from its earliest Native American inhabitants to the arrival of homesteaders, farmers, ranchers, railroaders, and miners. Inside the old depot, you'll find a variety of artifacts and displays, including original survey equipment from the construction of the Gunnison Tunnel, mining tools, and railroad memorabilia. The electrical room features rare items from Ames, Colorado, the site of the first alternating current plant in the world. Outside, explore a collection of vintage farm equipment, machinery, and vehicles, including a stagecoach that once traveled the Montrose-Durango route. Two restored log cabins offer a glimpse into pioneer life, with one depicting a traditional homesteader's cabin and the other showcasing the agricultural history of the region. A Union Pacific train caboose is also on display. The museum also features collections of dolls, toys, baby furniture, musical instruments, clothing, and medical equipment. For researchers, the museum houses local newspapers from 1896 to 1940, along with a photo collection, a database of historic buildings, and local publications.

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