History and Genealogy

The Creating Your Community web site is a new way to explore, connect, and share your stories and photos about Colorado with others in your community. We invite you to come and let us digitize your historical treasures and learn about the Creating Your Community Social Archive. We can scan up to three items no larger than 8.5" x 11.7". A USB drive will be provided.

Learn how to navigate Ancestry-Library Edition and discover your family history. This class will help the beginners and seasoned researchers get the most out of this rich resource.

Once “on the map,” places take on a reality in people’s minds, even when these places never existed. This lecture takes a look at some of the non-existent cities, rivers, political entities and so forth that appeared on maps of the American West.
Discussion led by Christopher W. Lane, proprietor of The Philadelphia Print Shop West, and nationally acclaimed expert on antique prints and maps.

A survey of nineteenth century printed views of the American West— from book and newspaper illustrations, to the elaborate portfolios of mid-century, to the magnificent bird’s eye views at the end of the century.
Discussion led by Christopher W. Lane, proprietor of The Philadelphia Print Shop West, and nationally acclaimed expert on antique prints and maps.

A history of the discovery and exploration of the place that became Colorado, as revealed on maps from 1540 to 1861, when Colorado became a territory.
Discussion led by Wesley A. Brown, map expert, collector, and co-founder of the Rocky Mountain Map Society.

A look at images and maps of Denver as it grew from a rude, gold-mining settlement to one of the largest American cities west of the Mississippi.
Discussion led by Christopher W. Lane, proprietor of The Philadelphia Print Shop West, and nationally acclaimed expert on antique prints and maps.

To celebrate Preservation Week, the Society of Rocky Mountain Archivists and the Denver Public Library Western History/Genealogy Department are providing short consultations for your family treasures with conservation experts.* Archivists at the “Ask an Archivist” table will be able to talk about organizing and storing your family materials at home.

Decker Library is one of approximately 80 sights in Denver to celebrate Doors Open Denver 2012. Our doors will be open on Saturday, April 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for visitors and library customers to enjoy. Named a Denver Historic Landmark in 1984 by the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission, the tapestry bricks, terra cotta trim, and tile roof make this public library reminiscent of an English cottage.

Local Author and Historian Phil Goodstein will be at the Park Hill Library to give a lively presentation about the enthralling history of the Park Hill Branch Library and surrounding area. All are welcome!

Both experienced and beginner writers are welcome. For more information contac facilitator, Carol Darrow cdarrow944@yahoo.com