Celebrating Two Years of Progress at Hartman Castle in Gunnison
Written by Hartman Castle Preservation
We gather (virtually if not in person) to celebrate not just a building, but a vision. A story. A shared belief that history matters, that heritage is worth protecting, and that a community’s character is something we create together, even at great distances.
Two years ago, Hartman Castle was at a crossroads. Its stone foundation and brick walls had witnessed more than a century of Gunnison’s history, but time had taken its toll. Many saw a fading landmark. But you saw possibility.
We saw a future where the Castle would once again be a place of gathering, learning, economic development, creativity, and joy. Now we celebrate how far we have come. Over the past two years, we have:
- Formed and strengthened the Hartman Castle Preservation Corporation — a dedicated nonprofit leading this work with care and strategy. This organization with its donors will own and operate the Castle’s operations after completing the sale.
- Completed key preservation assessments and started some of the stabilization work to the property.
- Completed the county process to return the property to commercial use
- Increased our social media followers from 0 to 800 and our email subscriber list to 700.
- Raised over 75% of our acquisition goal through donations, pledges, loan commitments (if needed), and generous community support. We will continue to pursue grant opportunities.
- Two years ago, we would not have even dreamed that we could ever attract enough attention to be awarded a Rocky Mountain PBS video. Yet through friendly connections and a compelling story, we awarded a spot in the 2024 lineup. The documentary, ‘Saving Hartman Castle’ has been televised numerous times and has over 10,000 view on YouTube alone.
- We have given countless tours. Our tours grow in size. One group visited in 2024 with 25 in attendance. In 2025, the group doubled in numbers.
- IIn 2025, Hartman Castle was selected as a finalist for Colorado’s Most Endangered Places designation. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, the application has been refined and resubmitted for the 2026 cycle.
Colorado’s Endangered Places Program is recognized statewide as a leader in preservation advocacy. As Colorado Preservation, Inc. explains, the program not only brings vital visibility to vulnerable historic places, but also “acts as a catalyst for action, connecting communities with resources, professionals, and tools to chart a path forward.”
Selected sites will be officially announced at Colorado Preservation, Inc.’s Saving Places Conference to be held February 11–13, 2026. - Most importantly, we have built a movement of people who believe that historical places anchor us. The power of place.
This is more than preservation work. It is cultural stewardship. It is making sure that future generations will walk these grounds and feel the same wonder we feel today.
This year, momentum has taken hold.
We have seen individuals, families, businesses step forward to say:
“Yes. This matters.”
“Yes. Gunnison’s story deserves a place to live.”
“Yes. Let’s contribute to something lasting.”
Your continued support tells us we are on the right path.
The final steps rarely belong to chance. They belong to commitment. To the people who understand that we are not just preserving a building. We are adding to the story and the future of our community.
So, as we celebrate this second anniversary, we invite you to stay engaged.
Continue sharing the story.
Bring others into the mission.
Help us finish strong.
Because in a few short years, we when stand on these grounds of Hartman Castle, not only will we celebrating a saved 135 year old building, but we will be celebrating its rebirth.
We will once again hear music in the courtyard, laugher in the rooms, host schoolchildren on field trips, weddings in the gardens, engage with our college students, and community events that remind us why this place is special.
And when that day comes, we will know that it was all of us who made it happen.
To history.
To community.
To momentum.
To Hartman Castle — and to the people who believe in it.
Give Today!
Help save Hartman Castle and the carriage house behind it for the people of the valley that Alonzo Hartman loved. The intent is to see it used for weddings, business retreats, and social gatherings. We are in desperate need of donations to bring this Gunnison historical treasure back to life. We have had a great response to our efforts including working with the county to make it happen. Please be a part of this piece of Gunnison Valley History! All amounts large and small will be put toward the purchase. For larger amounts, please contact Hartman Castle Preservation directly at info@hartmancastle.org or send your check by mail.
Mail-In Donation
Mail checks to :
Hartman Castle Preservation Corp
PO Box 1294
Gunnison, CO 81230
Online Donation
Price range: $25.00 through $5,000.00
Please choose an amount and click “Add to Cart”.
Related Articles
Gunnison Cattlemen’s Days and the Legacy of Colorado Cattle Country
Each July, the Gunnison Valley celebrates its deep-rooted ranching heritage with Cattlemen’s Days—an event that honors the grit, tradition, and community spirit of Colorado’s ranching families. As rodeos, parades, and 4-H events take over town, it’s the perfect time to reflect on one of the first cattlemen to brave the terrain and shape this legacy: Alonzo Hartman.
The Social Power of Preservation and Placemaking
Places like Hartman Castle are more than brick and stone; they are cultural anchors that foster identity and connection across generations.
The Economic Power of Historic Preservation
Every May, communities across the country observe Preservation Month, celebrating the places that tell the story of our past and shape our future. Here in Gunnison, Hartman Castle isn’t just a relic of local history—it’s a powerful reminder that preserving our...