1879 Avery House: A Victorian Gem in Fort Collins

The 1879 Avery House, located on Mountain Avenue in Fort Collins' Old Town, is a testament to the city's rich history and the legacy of Franklin Avery. Built by Avery, who is credited with surveying the town and establishing its wide streets, the house stands as one of the city's best examples of High Victorian Gothic architecture. The house museum showcases the life of the Avery family at the turn of the 20th century. Constructed of sandstone from local quarries, the house features a carriage house, a gazebo, and a fountain. Inside, visitors can explore period furnishings, portraits, and artifacts, including items from the Avery family's travels to Japan. The house also has a historic costume collection. Franklin Avery founded the First National Bank and was instrumental in developing water projects that enabled agriculture to flourish in northern Colorado. He and his wife, Sara, raised their three children in the house. The Avery family lived in the house until 1962. The Poudre Landmarks Foundation purchased the home in 1974 and began restoration efforts. The Avery House, gazebo, fountain, and carriage house are part of the Avery House Historic District, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the Avery House is open for tours, offering visitors a glimpse into Victorian-era Colorado. Knowledgeable docents guide visitors through the home and grounds, sharing stories of the Avery family and Fort Collins' early days.