Hartman Castle
Hartman Castle is a historic home in Gunnison, Colorado. It is on the site of one of the first homesteads in Gunnison. This important piece of Gunnison Valley history has unfortunately fallen into disrepair from years of neglect. A local nonprofit called Hartman Castle Preservation Corporation is seeking donations to purchase and restore the property.
Hartman Castle Preservation Corp.
The goal of the Hartman Castle Preservation Corp is to preserve this piece of Gunnison history. The 2.5-acre property includes two buildings: the Castle and the old carriage house. The property also has gardens that need to be restored. Plans for the property include restoring the Castle to maintain its historical integrity and reviving the gardens.
How can Hartman Castle be saved?
Hartman Castle Preservation’s most immediate need is monetary donations. The property must be purchased before renovations can begin. They need to raise $800,000 to purchase the home. Once the home is purchased the nonprofit will apply for grants to help cover restoration costs. Donate here to be part of restoring an important part of the Gunnison Valley’s history!
Damage to Hartman Castle
This beautiful and historic property has suffered from neglect. The house has sustained water damage that is particularly bad. Repairs need to happen as quickly as possible so the damage doesn’t get worse. Despite the neglect, the house is in stable condition.
Intact Features
The interior of the house is adorned with intricate handmade woodwork. A dramatic spiral staircase winds upwards from the foyer to the second story. The house also has ornate metal light fixtures and door handles. One fireplace has original decorative tile. Repairing the house as soon as possible will help preserve these original features.
What will Hartman Castle be used for?
The overall vision is to create a “museum where you can sit on the furniture.” The Preservation Corp also want the property to once again be a gathering place for the community and visitors. The Castle and gardens will primarily be used as event space for weddings, business retreats, family reunions and more. The carriage house will be used as office space for the Hartman Castle Preservation Corporation Nonprofit.
Why is Hartman Castle significant?
The home received the nickname of “castle” because of its Gothic turret, winding staircase, and beautiful details such as stained-glass windows and ornate wood trim. The Hartmans hosted balls, community gatherings, weddings and other events in their home. Hartman Castle became a landmark in the community because of its unique architectural design and as a gathering place. Hartman Rocks, named for the Hartman family, was once part of the Hartman’s ranch.
The History of Hartman Castle
Alonzo and Annie Hartman
Alonzo Hartman came to the Gunnison Valley in 1872 to work for the Los Pinos Indian Agency. Alonzo played an important part in Gunnison’s history. He helped establish the town of Gunnison by purchasing land with a few other community members and setting up a post office. He married Annie Haigler in 1882.
Building Hartman Castle
Alonzo and Annie built one of the first homesteads in the Gunnison Valley in 1885. Their ranch eventually grew to over 2,000 acres. They built Hartman Castle, a quarry stone home, in the early 1890s. The house was designed based on Annie’s drawings.
How else can I be involved?
Volunteer opportunities also exist. Possible ways to help include grant writing, construction, research and more. Learn more about volunteer opportunities and get involved. Keep up with preservation efforts on the Hartman Castle Preservation Facebook page. Please fill out this contact form if you’d like to learn more. Check out this Gunnison Country Times article to read more about the history of the home and the current preservation work.
