This property abounds with history. Ohio City was a mining town that started in the gold mining boom of 1880. When the store was exactly built has not yet been determined but, is likely to be aroung the 1890's.
The Denver & South Park narrow guage railroad ran right behind the store and was the first of its kind to penetrate the Continental Divide via the famous Alpine Tunnel. Remnants of the tunnel can still be seen 20 miles north of the store.
This store provided most all of the goods needed for the locals and miners throughout its existence. It also provided a telephone switchboard and housed the Post Office.
In 1936, the store became the first to have electricity in which was provided by a hydroelectric plant off Quartz Creek. The building continued to be run on the 36 volt DC current until it was converted to line power in 1976 by its new master electrician licensed owner.
The store still has its original shelving and rolling ladders. There is an antique medicine cabinet, counters and display cases and a safe that will convey and have significant value as well as its contents.
The walk in/ reach in cooler was added in 1940 and adds extra charm to all who have seen it. It has been updated with new equipment and runs on outside air in the winter!
The bar area was added in 1940 as well and has a long history to all who enter and offer their past experiences. The bar counter was replaced for another in the late 1970's for a counter that came out of The Wagon Wheel Saloon in Pitkin, Co built in 1888. A time capsule was placed inside the counter upon assembly and is still intact today.
The bar was a very popular dance hall to those in the area for many years. A modern apartment is now in place of the old dance floor but its heart pine flooring can still be seen throughout.
The bar was used as a gun shop for about ten years and was regarded as one of the best in the country.
There is still a brother and sister still living that were born in the store around 1940. They frequently stop in and offer information of the store's colorful past. |