Behind the Closed Doors: Winter Work at the Courthouse

Though the museum is closed for the winter, the Buena Vista Heritage team is anything but idle. Behind the locked doors of the 1882 Chaffee County Courthouse, we’re gearing up for a season full of restoration work—important steps that move us closer to bringing this historic landmark back to its original glory.

What does that actually mean?

For years, we’ve partnered with the Colorado State Historic Fund to breathe new life into the Courthouse. Our most recent grant, awarded in 2023, has kept us busy with the kind of detailed, behind-the-scenes work that most visitors never see—but that makes all the difference.

One of the biggest tasks has been developing full mechanical and electrical engineering plans for the building. This is no small feat. Engineers from across Colorado studied the Courthouse’s current systems, mapped out our long-term goals, and then charted the many steps required to get there. That process alone took more than a year.

Visible progress, too

While the engineers worked, we kept our hands busy with projects that were ready to go. Four more windows were carefully restored, an interior door was given new life, and we tracked down historically accurate hardware to replace missing originals—details that ensure authenticity down to the smallest hinge and latch.

Protecting the Courthouse for generations

Perhaps most significantly, we secured a Conservation Easement for the building’s interior. This legal protection guarantees that the painstaking restoration work completed here will be preserved for generations to come. It prevents alterations that would compromise the historic integrity of the Courthouse, ensuring that every window, door, and wood panel we restore today will remain part of the story tomorrow.

Powered by community and care

None of this work would be possible without the generosity and support of many. The Colorado State Historic Fund has provided the crucial foundation for our restoration efforts, while the Town of Buena Vista and the Chaffee County Commissioners have stepped in with vital local contributions. And just as importantly, our community continues to rally behind us—giving time, resources, and encouragement in whatever ways they can. Every window restored, every door rehung, and every plan drawn is a testament to the care of all who believe this building is worth preserving.