Aspen Historical Society

Background Statement

Aspen Historical Society (AHS) actively preserves and passionately presents local history in an inspired and provocative manner that will continue to anchor the local community and its evolving character. AHS maintains one of the largest public archives in the region, with a portion of its collection available online as a free resource. AHS operates four historical sites: the Wheeler/Stallard Museum, the Holden/Marolt Mining & Ranching Museum, and the ghost towns of Independence and Ashcroft. All four sites are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Colorado Register of Historic Properties, and the ghost towns are managed and interpreted in partnership with the US Forest Service. AHS utilizes industry-leading strategies–from interpretive dynamic storytelling to museum theater–to provide creative and fun ways for participants of all ages to learn about area history. AHS provides free history education for regional schools, including field programs at the historical sites and in-classroom lessons. Locals and visitors are invited to explore the history of the upper Roaring Fork Valley with guided tours, programs, and community events offered year-round.