History

The Story of the Plaza Block Building

Built in 1895, the Plaza Block Building has been part of La Junta’s story for more than a century. Over the years, it served many purposes before falling into disrepair. Through the work of Southeast Colorado Creative Partnership and community partners, the building was restored and given new life as a place for creativity, learning, events, meetings, and community connection.

Built in 1895

Constructed in 1895, the Plaza Block Building became part of La Junta's growing downtown business district. Designed by architect W. H. Robinson, the building originally housed commercial businesses and later became home to the Postal Telegraph Company, Western Union, and other local establishments.

For generations, the Plaza Block played a role in the everyday life of downtown La Junta, serving residents, merchants, and visitors as the community grew and changed.

Historic Brickwork - A closer look at the Plaza Block's aging brickwork and architectural details, showing the challenges involved in preserving this historic landmark.

Photo courtesy of Summit Sealants & Restoration Services.

A Building Worth Saving

After decades of vacancy and deterioration, the Plaza Block Building faced an uncertain future.

In 2007, the La Junta Urban Renewal Authority purchased the property with hopes of giving it a new purpose.

Although an early museum plan was not completed, the building’s historic importance was recognized when it was added to the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties in 2015.

Years of Deterioration

The Plaza Block's interior reveals the extensive deterioration that occurred during years of vacancy.

Clearing the Way

Debris removed from the building illustrates the scale of the cleanup involved in its preservation.

A Building Worth Preserving

Community members inside the Plaza Block during its early preservation efforts.

Looking Toward Restoration

A glimpse inside the deteriorated building before restoration was completed.

Restoring the Structure - Exposed floor framing, temporary supports, and new structural timbers reveal the extensive work involved in restoring the historic Plaza Block Building.

Restoration and New Life

Southeast Colorado Creative Partnership, the La Junta Urban Renewal Authority, and local partners worked together to restore and repurpose the Plaza Block Building.

Beginning in 2017, the project moved forward in phases with support from History Colorado and other funding partners.

Work included stabilizing the structure, repairing floor framing and masonry, restoring windows and storefronts, and renewing the interior—bringing a long-vacant landmark back to life.

Photo courtesy of Summit Sealants & Restoration Services.

Rebuilding the Staircase

Reconstruction of the interior staircase provides access to the Plaza Block's two upstairs apartments, which are being prepared for future overnight guests.

Structural Support

A closer look at the interior framing and supports installed during restoration.

Restoration in Progress

Project team members examine the historic Plaza Block Building during restoration, documenting its condition and the work underway.

Uncovering the Past

Exposed brickwork and deteriorated plaster reveal layers of the Plaza Block's historic construction and the challenges involved in preserving its original character.

Watch the Plaza Block Restoration

Take a behind-the-scenes look at the preservation and restoration of the historic Plaza Block Building. This video, produced by Summit Sealants & Restoration Services, documents the work involved in bringing this La Junta landmark back to life.

Video courtesy of Summit Sealants & Restoration Services, Inc.

A New Chapter for the Plaza Block

The restoration of the Plaza Block Building represents more than saving a historic landmark. It marks the beginning of a new chapter for downtown La Junta.

Today, the Plaza Block is once again a place where people come together. Its restored spaces welcome art exhibitions, classes, workshops, meetings, and community gatherings. A commercial kitchen offers opportunities for cooking programs, while two upstairs apartments are being prepared to welcome overnight guests in the future.

What began in 1895 as part of La Junta's growing downtown has been given new life through the dedication of Southeast Colorado Creative Partnership, preservationists, local organizations, and community members who believed this building was worth saving.

The Plaza Block's history has been preserved. Its next chapter is just beginning.

A Historic Space Reimagined

The beautifully restored interior preserves the Plaza Block's historic character while creating a welcoming space for new experiences.

A Place for Art

The Plaza Block provides a space where artists can share their work and visitors can discover creativity within the community.

Bringing People Together

From art exhibitions to community gatherings, the Plaza Block brings people together to celebrate creativity and connection.

Creativity in Action

Hands-on activities and creative experiences bring people of different ages together to learn, explore, and create.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse