Temple Aaron

Listed: 2017

Constructed: 1889

Threat: Closed; for sale

Closest Town to Resource: Trinidad

Significance: Located in the El Corazon de Trinidad National Historic District, Temple Aaron is a prominent visual landmark in Trinidad and the oldest synagogue building in continuous operation in Colorado. Designed by Isaac Hamilton Rapp and constructed in 1889, Temple Aaron is not only architecturally significant but also important for its role in the history of Trinidad. The cornerstone was laid on June 17, 1889, and at its dedication, the congregation included approximately 50 male members. Leopold Freudenthal served as the first full-time Rabbi until 1916. In 2016, Temple Aaron temporarily closed its doors, ending a chapter in its 27-year history with the Jewish community. A dwindling congregation, reorganization, and mounting costs for insurance, maintenance, and necessary repairs lead to that decision. Today the building retains its original stained glass windows and hand-carved bimah and organ. CPI currently holds an easement on the property and works with the newly reformed congregation to preserve the building.

Site Needs: Repair and maintenance, an updated Historic Structure Assessment, and ongoing engagement with the community.

Update: The congregation has reformed with a new regional focus and non-profit incorporation and has once again been hosting events for special Jewish holidays. A National Historic (NHL) Landmark nomination has been completed for consideration by the National Parks Service in 2022. A full roof investigation and emergency repairs were also completed with the help of a $50,000 State Historical Fund grant in 2022. A grant for complete roof replacement will be submitted later in the year.

Toltec Hotel

Listed: 1998

Constructed: 1910

Threat: Demolition

Closest Town to Resource: Trinidad

Significance: Constructed in 1910, the Toltec Hotel is one of Trinidad’s treasures. One of many architecturally diverse landmark buildings within the El Corazon de Trinidad National Register Historic District, the Toltec is the only surviving terra cotta building in Trinidad. During the coal mine strike of 1913-14, during which the Ludlow Massacre occurred, union organizers held meetings at the hotel. Years of neglect and abandonment took their toll on the once-thriving hotel, which was listed as an Endangered Place in 1998. A leaky roof had caused extensive damage to the interior, and with an unsympathetic owner in charge of the building, the Toltec appeared destined for demolition. At the time of listing, a demolition order was in place for the hotel. Local activists led by Colorado Preservation, Inc. rallied around this local treasure. Listing on the Endangered Places helped spotlight this gem and heightened awareness of its potential loss, prompting the city of Trinidad to reconsider its fate. In 2000, the City acquired the hotel, saving it from demolition. In late 2004, the City of Trinidad sold the building to Shearman Real Estate LLC, a company noted for preservation projects. A several million-dollar rehabilitation for the Toltec is complete, with ten high-end lofts on the upper floors and three commercial units at street level.