What Colorado's New Historic Designation Means for Montrose

We keep finding more reasons to celebrate Colorado’s 150th anniversary here on the Western Slope, and part of that celebration will mean two more properties on the list of historic places in Montrose.

The Lathrop Hardware building dates to the late 19th century and once housed one of Montrose's earliest and longest-running hardware stores. The E.A. Lee Garage reflects the arrival of the automobile in Western Colorado. Both are now historic properties worthy of a closer look the next time you pass by.

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Two Downtown Buildings Are Now Officially Historic

The Montrose City Council approved two new designations in July. Lathrop Hardware and E.A. Lee Garage. The properties are both over 50 years old and are tied to the history of downtown Montrose. Current preservation rules could allow for alterations, relocation, or demolition one day, all subject to council review.

The Story Behind Lathrop Hardware

Two Pieces of Montrose History Are Now Officially Protected — Google Street

The city of Montrose says the Lathrop Hardware building at 439 East Main Street was completed by 1890 and began as a furniture store. J.B. Lathrop moved his hardware business into the building in 1899. He sold everything from stoves and farm implements to tinware. The Lathrop building was constructed with local stone and has been home to several businesses since the Lathrops sold their store in 1916.

The E.A. Lee Garage Tells a Different Montrose Story

The E.A. Lee Garage at 219 East Main Street represents another chapter in Montrose history. Automobiles arrived in Colorado by 1900. It was not long before Montrose needed a garage. Over the years, the building has been a bowling alley, an army surplus store, and the longtime home of Jeans Westerner. It’s nice to see a downtown building evolve as the community around it continues to grow.

LOOK: Western Colorado's Gold Mountain Fire (Week 4 In Photos)

Behind every increase in containment are hundreds of firefighters working long hours in steep, rugged terrain. These photos from the front lines offer a closer look at the crews, equipment, aircraft, and challenging conditions shaping the fight against the Gold Mountain Fire.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

MORE: Montrose Facts Every Colorado Local Should Know

From railroad-driven beginnings and major irrigation projects to surprising local history and rapid growth, this Western Slope town has more hidden layers than you’d expect. Here are 12 facts that show why Montrose is one of Colorado’s most interesting and overlooked communities.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

UP NEXT: Montrose, Colorado's Favorite Restaurants

Tucked between Montrose’s newer spots, a handful of restaurants have been holding it down for decades—some for more than 30 years. Keep scrolling to celebrate the longtime local favorites that helped shape Montrose’s food scene, plus a few fresh faces we can’t get enough of.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams