Buena Vista Heritage

This year, Buena Vista Heritage soared to new heights, welcoming more visitors, undertaking more grants, and hosting more field trips and special events than ever before. While our historic buildings and their captivating stories are the heart of our mission none of it would be possible without the unwavering support of our community. New exhibits: women of the west - shared the stories of the strong, brilliant, and powerful women who shaped this area. Gems, minerals, and mining - moved to its new home and got a major facelift in the process. Medical - spruced up with new artifacts and signs. Military - redesigned, honoring the men and women from Buena Vista who have served. Big changes in a little museum: this year has been another resounding success for Buena Vista Heritage, and the future is brimming with exciting possibilities. The restoration of the historic chaffee county courthouse is moving forward and an impressive pace. Two Colorado state historical fund grants were successfully completed in 2023, and a new grant was awarded in february. Additionally, a planning grant application was submitted in november to address mechanical construction documents. These positive developments pave the way for a brighter future for this 141-year old landmark. Projects upgrades, and repairs: 2023 proved to be a year where much of our time, energy, and finances were dictated by the courthouse. Highlights at the courthouse from the past year include replacing our boiler, beginning the designs for a new emergency exit, rebuilding an old fire escape, and having a windowpane spontaneously fall out of the model train room. Turner farm decided to stay simple but drastic. It only threw two problems at us this year; the main water cutoff value seized, and the bottom fell out of our riding lawnmower. Passing history to the next generation: in 2023, Buena Vista Heritage saw more field trips than ever before. There will be more trips in the coming months. Heart of the museum: our volunteers are our heroes, and we couldn't do what we do without them.