Old West History
Travel back to the old west to a time when the primary mode of long-distance travel was by stagecoach and a trip to Grand County from Denver took over three days! A lot has changed since then, but thanks to well-preserved structures and artifacts, there are still many opportunities to explore Grand County’s rich history and the role it played in the discovery, development and construction of the Old West. From rustic log cabins built by the earliest pioneers to restored turn-of-the-century hotels designed to accommodate the era’s elite, the museums of Grand County, Colorado make history come alive.

Grand Lake, Colorado

Kauffman House Museum
407 Pitkin Avenue
Grand Lake, CO 80447
970-627-9644
E-mail: pattymgl@rkymtnhi.com

The Kauffman House, built as a hotel in 1892, is the last of the early Grand Lake log hotels in existence. Built to accommodate summer visitors of this scenic mountain village, the museum offers a unique perspective on the early tourist industry. It has been restored to its historic appearance with many original furnishings. Museum hours are from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend. Open on weekends only in September.

Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado

Grand County Museum
110 Byers Ave.
Hot Sulphur Springs, CO 80451
970-725-3939

Discover early day tools, clothing and old west artifacts on display at the Grand County Museum.  Housed in an original Hot Sulphur Springs school circa 1924, the museum tells the story of the development of the local area from prehistoric times to the present day. Outside the museum are several historic buildings including the county's original 19th century courthouse and jail.

Winter Park, Colorado

Cozens Ranch Museum and Stage Stop
77849 U.S. Hwy 40
Winter Park, CO 80482 
970-726-5488

Cozens Ranch is the site of the first ranch and stage stop in the Fraser Valley. The original 1876 house has been beautifully restored and is open to the public. Throughout the house you will find photographs of the Cozens family and early life in the Fraser valley. Original wallpaper and carpet pieces in the main house are combined with family and antique items contemporary to the period.

Kremmling, Colorado

Kremmling Log Cabin Heritage Museum
Town Square
Kremmling, CO 80459

Located in the town square of Kremmling, the Log Cabin Heritage Museum displays a fascinating photographic study of area history and the pioneer families. It is adjacent to the historic McElroy Livery and Feed Barn, also property of the Grand County Historical Association.

Additional Resources

Grand County Historical Association
PO Box 165
Hot Sulphur Springs, CO 80452
970-725-3939

The Grand County Historical Association was founded in 1974. Its purpose is to preserve the history, historical artifacts and historical buildings in Grand County, Colorado. The Association has three museums: the Grand County Museum Complex, Cozens Ranch Museum and Kremmling Log Cabin Heritage Musuem.