Poudre Landmarks

Help Preserve the Heart of Fort Collins History

Poudre Landmarks Foundation celebrates local history and shares it with the community. Staff and volunteers manage and operate two of Fort Collins’ most significant historic sites, the 1879 Avery House and the 1883 Water Works. Guests enjoy tours of these landmark properties and take part in events that bring history to life throughout the year, including Valentine history-themed tours, Old-fashioned Independence Day, What’s Under the Skirt, Halloween Candle-lit Tours at the 1879 Avery House, and the annual Historic Homes Tour.

Every program, event, and tour helps connect people of all ages to the stories and spirit that define Northern Colorado. Through preservation, education, and storytelling, Poudre Landmarks ensures that our shared history remains visible, meaningful, and accessible to all.

Your support during Colorado Gives strengthens this mission. Historic preservation requires ongoing care, funding, and community commitment. With your help, we can continue to restore and maintain these important landmarks, expand educational programming, and inspire a deeper appreciation for the heritage that makes Fort Collins unique.

What our community says:

“My 2nd-grade daughter toured the Avery House on a school field trip and insisted our entire family come to see it. She had so much fun sharing what she learned!”—Delighted parent of a future Avery House docent

“I love the history of our community and the Historic Homes Tour is a great opportunity to see the inside of history and learn more. The properties Poudre Landmarks supports are wonderful.”—Historic Homes Tour Participant

“It has been exciting to participate in archaeological discoveries and interpret the history of the 1883 Water Works to visitors. Working with Poudre Landmarks has been very rewarding.”—Phil H., Volunteer

“The restorations of the 1879 Avery House and the 1883 Water Works are premiere historic preservation projects that have put Fort Collins on the national historical tourism map.”—Carol T.

Your gift ensures that future generations can continue to experience these stories firsthand. Together, we can protect Fort Collins’ landmarks, honor its people, and keep its history alive.