Background

San Juan Historical Museum: A Glimpse into Pagosa Springs' Past

Discover Pagosa Springs' heritage at the San Juan Historical Museum, showcasing life from the 1890s to the early 1900s.

4.6

The San Juan Historical Museum, housed in the town's old water works building, offers a fascinating look into the lives of Pagosa Springs' early settlers from the 1890s to the early 1900s. Exhibits showcase artifacts from homes, farms, and ranches, providing a glimpse into the area's rich history.

A brief summary to San Juan Historical Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's operating hours, as it's typically open from late May to late August, Wednesday through Saturday.
  • Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help with the museum's upkeep.
  • Explore the museum's exhibits to learn about early life in Pagosa Springs, including displays of a dentist's office, barber shop, and schoolroom.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The San Juan Historical Museum is located downtown at 96 Pagosa Street. From most downtown locations, it is easily accessible on foot. If you are near the Pagosa Springs Visitor Center, walk east along Hot Springs Boulevard, then turn right onto N 1st Street. The museum will be on your left, next to the San Juan River.

  • Public Transport

    Mountain Express Transit (MET) provides bus service in Pagosa Springs. Check the MET bus schedule for the most convenient route and stop nearest to the museum. From the bus stop, follow the walking directions to the museum. A single ride fare is approximately $2.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-share services like Uber and A1 Taxi are available in Pagosa Springs. Request a ride to 96 Pagosa Street. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a short trip within Pagosa Springs.

Unlock the Best of San Juan Historical Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about San Juan Historical Museum

Step back in time at the San Juan Historical Museum, where you can explore the captivating history of Pagosa Springs and the surrounding area. Established in 1970, the museum is located in the historic water works building on the corner of 1st and Pagosa Street. The museum's exhibits depict life in Pagosa Springs from the 1890s to the early 1900s. Visitors can explore detailed displays of a dentist's office, barber shop, general store, and a turn-of-the-century schoolroom. Other exhibits include a blacksmith shop, a typical early 1900s kitchen, and logging and ranching equipment. The museum also features metal art sculptures by Worth Crouse, a welder and teacher, and a display of the Oppenheimer chair, used in Los Alamos by the "father of the Atomic Bomb". You can also view Henry Gordon's saddle, which belonged to a homesteader north of town. The museum also showcases local quiltmakers. The San Juan Historical Society also compiled a series of books titled “Remembrances,” which delve into the history of the area and its people. Funds raised from the sale of these books support the operation of the museum.

Popular Experiences near San Juan Historical Museum

Popular Hotels near San Juan Historical Museum

Select Currency