Union Ave. Historic District

The town of Pueblo was organized July 1, 1860. South Pueblo and Central Pueblo incorporated in 1872 and 1882. The "Unifying Link" between South and Central Pueblo was Union Avenue. The 1886 consolidation of the three Pueblo towns brought a tremendous boom to Union Ave. The brick and stone structures seen today replaced original wooden buildings. Most of the stone carvings seen on the Avenue are products of Italian stonemasons.

Famous people of all walks of life came to gamble, buy saddles, bank and be entertained. Part of the entertainment was provided in the second floor brothels where lusty "Soiled Flowers" bestowed their favors. Today you find Art Galleries and other less colorful enterprises. In fact, Pueblo's oldest established Galleries are found in the Historic District.

The single most important event in Pueblo history was the flood of 1921 which inundated the Union Avenue District and surrounding areas in over 11 feet of water. As the water receded, so did much of the spirit and character of the District.

Envisioning opportunities found in other cities' Historic Districts, a revival movement brought investors and in the 1980's restorations began recreating the ambience of yesteryear. As a visitor today you will find landscaped streets lined with shops, cafes, professional and service businesses. Seventy buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places. We have become a favorite destination for shopping, dining or just strolling in a friendly, charming place.