Colona In Black & White
Where history lingers in every structure.
Through a blend of rustic architecture, aging vehicles, and restored landmarks, the images tell the story of a community that has preserved its past while embracing the present. Each photograph invites the viewer to explore the layers of history embedded in Colona’s humble yet resilient structures, offering a glimpse into a bygone era that continues to shape the town today.
The Colona Roadhouse: A Historical Landmark for Sale
This rustic log building is the historic Colona Roadhouse, a fixture in the small town since the early 1900s. Known for its rugged charm, the roadhouse served as a hub for travelers and locals alike, offering food, drinks, and a gathering place in the heart of Colona. It's up for sale today, marking a potential new chapter in the town's story.
Colona Hall and Post Office - Restored to Honor the Past
The Colona Hall and Post Office, originally built in the early 20th century, stands as a testament to the town's historic roots. Once a hub of local activity, the building has been lovingly restored to reflect its original charm while serving as a reminder of Colona’s rich heritage.
Calloway Meat Packing - A Legacy Moved to Delta
This building in Colona, Colorado, once housed the operations of Calloway Meat Packing. Though the company has since moved to Delta, Colorado, the building remains a piece of Colona’s commercial history, symbolizing the town's agricultural and business roots.
Early 19th Century Colona Residence
This historic Colona residence, dating back to circa 1900, represents the simple yet enduring architecture of the era. The structure likely began as a one-room home, common among settlers in small towns like Colona. Built with locally available materials, the wooden siding and minimalistic design reflect the modest means of the town's early inhabitants. Homes of this period were often expanded as families grew, resulting in a patchwork of rooms and architectural styles added over the years. Despite its age, this home remains a relic of Colona's early residential life.
Preserving History
Originally built in 1887 as a Methodist Episcopal church in Ouray, this historic building was relocated to its current location at the corner of Sneffels St. and Thatcher Ave. in Colona in 1912. The move involved a horse-drawn wagon and was made possible by a generous land donation from Preston Hotchkiss.
A notable feature of the church is its bell, originally from the Denver City Hall. Unfortunately, the bell mysteriously disappeared sometime in the 1960s.
Today, the church continues to serve the community with Sunday services at 10:30 am, led by Pastor Alan Brock. They also offer bible studies for those interested in deepening their faith.
The Colona Stockyards
Initially built in 1917 as the Gibson-Faw Lumber & Mercantile, this structure at 38 Sneffels Street evolved with Colona's changing needs. After its brief time under the ownership of Christian Science of Colona in 1924, it was purchased by Callaway’s Packing Inc. in 1956. The Stockyards were later transformed into a community event space, complete with a stage for live performances and facilities for hosting BBQs. The chicken coop, which once provided eggs, remains intact—a nod to Colona’s agricultural roots.
Architectural Charm in Colona, Colorado
LadyBird Coffee Shop and Bakery
The LadyBird building is a prominent example of Colona's preserved architecture. With its vintage facade and vibrant business today, it houses the LadyBird coffee shop and bakery, adding life to this small town's charm.
Weathered Window Frames
A close-up of a corrugated metal wall and window, emphasizing the rustic texture that defines many historic structures in Colona. These simple yet enduring elements capture the resilience of the town's architecture.
Wrought-Iron Details
This old window frame, adorned with wrought iron, is a subtle reminder of the craftsmanship that went into Colona's early buildings. The contrast between light and shadow brings out the texture of the wall and the elegance of the ironwork.