Searching Photographs

The Denver Public Library has an extensive digital collection that includes images from throughout the western United States, including many Colorado towns from the late 1800's to present.


Vernor Z. Reed residence, Denver


Trinity Methodist Church, Denver

Though there are thousands of photographs of buildings in our collections, we don't have pictures of every house or building. Only more famous buildings will have multiple views over time of the exterior and interior, gardens and landscaping, etc. A search by the name prominently associated with the building will usually retrieve these images.


1827 California Street, Denver

The best way to begin to look for a photograph of a house or building other than by name is to search by street name. If we know the exact address, that will also be included in the description.


Searching for "Park Floral Company" returns this view of houses in the neighborhood of Colfax and Josephine.

Another way of locating photographs of a building is to think of prominent features or landmarks that are nearby. Search for nearby churches, parks, schools, businesses, streets, etc. In many cases, it is possible to enlarge a section of the photograph to see the details in an area of interest.


Searching for "Seventh Avenue" brings up this photograph showing houses near 7th and Washington.

Higher resolution images and enlarging capability are available at workstations in the Western History/Genealogy Department of The Denver Public Library and at the Colorado Historical Society. For more information about obtaining photographic prints of enlarged details contact our Photo Sales Department.


Architectural examples of the Victorian Era.

Even if you don't find a photograph of your building, you may be able to locate images of architectural details or styles that can help in preservation or restoration. After you have identified some key elements or the style of your building, try searching on terms like Queen Anne, Gothic Revival, Colonial Revival, and Victorian Era.

After you have identified some key elements or the style of your building, try searching on these terms:

ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS

  • Mansard roof
  • Pendants
  • Bargeboard
  • Bracketed cornices
  • Quoins
  • Interiors
  • Dormers, brackets
  • Gambrel roof
  • Half-timbering
  • Fences
  • Turrets
  • Balconies

Photographs are constantly being digitized and added, so if you don't find your building the first time you look, keep checking back.