Lookback - Doors Open Denver

One of my family's favorite events should've been this weekend, but, you know, COVID and stuff. Doors Open Denver is an annual event hosted by the Denver Architecture Foundation. The idea is that a bunch of buildings throughout the city open their doors and the public can come in and take a look. It's a way for folks to experience both historic and more modern architecture throughout the city. My wife and kids got to experience the event for several years without me, as it always seemed to fall on a weekend when I was out of town. A few years ago, though, the event moved from spring to fall and I got to enjoy it for myself. This year, though, the event is going to be virtual, which just isn't the same. 

Since we can't go out and explore in person this year, I decided to post some of my photos from previous years.  One of the things I enjoy most about Doors Open Denver is that it is great for photographers. The event organizers even sponsor a photography contest in conjunction which each year's event. So, enjoy a few of the shots I grabbed last year. Hopefully next year we'll be back to enjoying Doors Open Denver in person.

The Colorado Governor's Mansion is usually our first stop each year for Door's Open Denver, as it is one of the most popular spots on each year's roster. The list of places open changes from year to year, but the Governor's Mansion always participates. The mansion is located at 400 E 8th Ave in Denver. Before it was the governor's mansion, the home was residence for several notable Denver families. It was originally the home of the widow and daughter of Denver real estate tycoon Walter Scott Cheesman, though he never lived there. Cheesman's daughter Gladys would marry John Evans II, grandson of the second territorial governor of Colorado, John Evans.  The couple would reside in the mansion until the birth of their first child.  Later, the mansion would be the home of Denver businessman Claude K Boettcher.  

In 1959, The Boettcher Foundation gifted the mansion to the state and it became the Governor's Mansion. Our state governor's would reside there until 2011. Now it is used primarily for special events, though there are residences in the upper floors which can be utilized by the governor from time to time.

One of the stops for last year's event was the Alliance Francaise, located at 571 Galapago St in Denver. This is an organization that promotes French culture here in the Rocky Mountain region. They offer many French language classes. Denver's branch of this organization was founded in 1897. 

A few years ago, one of the stops was the famous Rossonian Hotel, located on North Washington St in Denver's Five Points neighborhood. In fact, The Rossonian sits right at the intersection that gives Five Points its name. 

Five Point was once referred to as the Harlem of the West, and the Rossonian is one of the most important landmark's of the neighborhood. Jazz greats like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, and many more regularly played there. 

Right now, the hotel is not exactly swinging like it once was. However, plans are afoot to restore this historic structure and bring the music back.

So, you can see why someone like me who enjoys both history and photography is a bit bummed that we have no Doors Open Denver this year. Here's hoping that next year's event will be worth the wait!