Animas Museum

A nonprofit organization

History can be inspiringly beautiful, and history can be ugly, but every his/her/their story is a part of who we are as individuals and as a community.  Animas Museum shows it all in authentic and meaningful images, exhibits, webinars and events.

We hope you will support our efforts to help everyone see the history of La Plata County as a living path to the future. 

We help people find their roots researching their history.  Our events and exhibits encourage people to experience history. Classroom outreach helps students hone thinking skills. Historical knowledge allows us to see the diversity of the past, accepting change for the future, and bringing a stronger sense of community.

Your tax deductible gift to the Animas Museum ensures the Museum can continue to offer dynamic exhibits, events and programs in addition to protecting the valuable collections, artifacts and research library. Thank you for considering us!

Mission

La Plata County Historical Society's mission is to keep La Plata County history and culture alive for present and future generations. By promoting understanding of the archaeological, anthropological, social, economic and political history of this area, we help assure continuity and a sense of our past for the decisions and actions that shape our future.

Background Statement

The Animas Museum building was built as the Animas City School in 1904, replacing three earlier school buildings. It is the oldest remaining Durango-area school and the only remaining building of its style in Durango. It is located in the former Animas City, which predated Durango by five years. Animas City was annexed by Durango in 1948. The Animas Museum is also the last remaining public building from Animas City. The building served as a school until 1967 and was eventually opened as the Animas Museum in 1983.

The La Plata County Historical Society was organized in 1972 and is governed by a volunteer board of directors.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

Animas Museum

other names

Animas Museum, LPCHS, La Plata County Historical Society Inc

Year Established

1972

Tax id (EIN)

84-0922530

Category

Education

Organization Size

Medium Organization

Address

3065 W. 2nd Ave
Durango, CO 81301

Mailing

PO Box 3384
Durango, CO 81302

Service areas

La Plata County, CO, US

Phone

970-259-2402

Social Media