The Monte Vista Historical Society

From Left to Right Linda Darnell  Lillian Ford  Julia Marsh

This century-old restored first library building appears as the 'reading room' it once was. See the tin ceiling, unusual 'pink' lava stone walls, and square nails, along with the history of Monte Vista and the San Luis Valley.

The Society was organized in 1987 as a non-profit volunteer group committed to the preservation of historical documents, photographs, and buildings in Monte Vista and surrounding areas.

Fifteen Monte Vista buildings have been placed on the National and State Registry of Historic Places through its efforts.

A collection of over 1,500 photographs (indexed), history reference books, and memorabilia are available to the public.

Read a Short History of Monte Vista.

The Society is dependent upon annual memberships, donations, and the sale of books, photographs and periodicals for its continued efforts.

The photos in this collection are available for sale under the Society Photo Policy with a 6-week turnaround time.
Please see our Photo Categories.
Copyrights may apply.

In 2000, the Society opened the
Transportation of the West Museum
in the old Fassett building.

Contact Us

Click on any image for a larger view and more information

FROZEN ARTESIAN WATER WELL This is a wintertime spectacle in the San Luis Valley Taken in the 1930s Photographer Herb Stanger/Stanger Studios DENVER & RIO GRANDE RAILROAD LARIAT SIDING Later to Become The Town of Monte Vista Circa March, 1884 THE BLANCA HOTEL Elegant Three-Story Stone Hotel Circa 1892 STUCK IN THE SAN LUIS VALLEY MUD South of Monte Vista Circa 1935 EARLY TRAVELS AND TRAVAILS! Crossing Wolf Creek Pass Circa 1915 CATCH OF THE DAY Camping Trip for the Fassett Family and Friends Circa 1910 PANORAMA OF MONTE VISTA Looking Southwest Circa 1890