Neighborhood Gallery

Once upon a time, in an area west of Denver there was a town called Barnum. This area was rich with history and opportunity. In a newspaper article of 1889, the Barnum area was “perhaps the most beautiful and desirable property in the suburbs of the city ...and on the line of Rapid Transit by the Cable and Horse Car Systems.”

In 1896, the big city of Denver annexed the town of Barnum. Plans were set into place to access this wonderful land other than by the Colfax Bridge. As Barnum grew, community members came from many different countries. Everything was available within walking distance. There were offices for a dentist, doctor, insurance agent and shops for dresses to shoe repair as well as grocery stores, a candy shop and a movie theater. An evening meant taking a walk, visiting with friends and waving to neighbors.

I remember moving into the Barnum area 20 years ago. Most of the yards were well kept with a house or two per block needing tending. I remember walking to the library with my daughter, she was so sad over this one house. She looked up at me and asked “Why won’t anyone love that home?”

I need a better ending to my fairy tale of Barnum than the one that faces us now. I refuse to think that I am part of a loosing battle. For all the right reasons, become involved with your community.