Sacred Heart Catholic Church
a.k.a. 5AL262
727 4th St., Alamosa, COSacred Heart Church in Alamosa is eligible for listing in the National Register under criterion C for its significance in the areas of Architecture and Art. The church, constructed between 1922 and 1928, represents the work of prominent Colorado architect Robert Willison and is the only example of his work in Alamosa. While Willison designed many churches throughout Colorado, this is a particularly good example of his work in the Mission/Spanish Colonial Revival style. Willison's use of rosa windows as clerestories represents an unusual application of this Spanish Baroque detailing. Part of the master plan drawn by Willison included a rectory connected to the church by an arcade. The rectory was completed in 1938 from revised drawings by architect John Monroe. The arcade that gracefully connects the two buildings was constructed in 1945. Both complement the church and convey the design originally conceived by Willison. An outstanding interior feature of Sacred Heart is the artwork by Josef Steinhage. Murals painted in 1942 and between 1946 and 1948 adorn the walls and ceilings of the church. These paintings are unlike any others found in the Diocese of Southern Colorado and were recognized nationally in Catholic circles.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Art
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1998.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
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Colorado was originally part of the Kansas and Nebraska territories, but was separated and made into its own territory in 1861. It became a state in 1876, 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
About Alamosa County
Alamosa County Timeline
Alamosa County, Colorado, was first inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ute and Jicarilla Apache. These tribes were semi-nomadic and relied on hunting and gathering for sustenance. Spanish explorers arrived in the region in the 16th century, with Juan de Oñate being one of the first known Europeans to visit the area. The Spanish established settlements and missions, but their presence was disrupted by conflicts with Native American tribes and eventually faded away.
In the mid-19th century, the Colorado Gold Rush brought European-American settlers into the area. Ranching and mining industries started to develop, transforming Alamosa County into an agricultural and commercial center. The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad established a route through the county in 1878, further boosting its growth and connecting it to larger markets.
Alamosa County experienced a significant population increase during the early 20th century due to agricultural expansion, primarily in potato farming and cattle ranching. The town of Alamosa was incorporated in 1878 and became the county seat. Water management projects, such as the establishment of reservoirs and irrigation canals, played a crucial role in supporting the region's agricultural growth.
The county also faced various challenges throughout its history. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s severely impacted the local economy, causing many residents to migrate in search of better opportunities. However, the community worked hard to recover, with the construction of the Alamosa National Fish Hatchery bringing much-needed jobs during the Great Depression. Today, Alamosa County continues to be a prominent agricultural center, while also attracting tourists who come to explore nearby natural attractions such as the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
In the mid-19th century, the Colorado Gold Rush brought European-American settlers into the area. Ranching and mining industries started to develop, transforming Alamosa County into an agricultural and commercial center. The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad established a route through the county in 1878, further boosting its growth and connecting it to larger markets.
Alamosa County experienced a significant population increase during the early 20th century due to agricultural expansion, primarily in potato farming and cattle ranching. The town of Alamosa was incorporated in 1878 and became the county seat. Water management projects, such as the establishment of reservoirs and irrigation canals, played a crucial role in supporting the region's agricultural growth.
The county also faced various challenges throughout its history. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s severely impacted the local economy, causing many residents to migrate in search of better opportunities. However, the community worked hard to recover, with the construction of the Alamosa National Fish Hatchery bringing much-needed jobs during the Great Depression. Today, Alamosa County continues to be a prominent agricultural center, while also attracting tourists who come to explore nearby natural attractions such as the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
Alamosa County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Alamosa County, Colorado.
- 1873 - Alamosa County was established on March 8th.
- 1878 - The first permanent settlement, known as "Old Fort," was established.
- 1881 - The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad reached Alamosa, fueling economic growth.
- 1886 - The town of Alamosa was incorporated on April 22nd.
- 1905 - The Alamosa National Bank, the first bank in the county, was established.
- 1912 - The State Normal School, now Adams State University, was founded.
- 1922 - The Carnegie Public Library opened its doors to the public.
- 1951 - The Great Sand Dunes National Monument was established.
- 2003 - The Alamosa County Museum opened, showcasing the county's history.