Between the Civil War and World War I, armories were built in many towns around the United States. They were intended to serve as headquarters for state militias or local units of the national guard. Typically, they were designed to look like fortresses and had thick walls. In fact, a fortress with crenelated towers is used as the symbol of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Golden’s armory, built in 1913, fit this pattern. It was designed specifically for use by the School of Mines’ engineering unit of the National Guard.
112 Years Ago
The November 13, 1913 Colorado Transcript included this article, which indicated that they thought the building would be a tourist attraction, as well as a military stronghold.
ARMORY WILL PROVE A DRAWING CARD
Nearing completion in Golden is a structure that is bound to prove one of the greatest sights for visitors in Colorado, and one that will do much to spread the fame of this great state. It is the largest cobblestone building in the United States, and is to be the home of the engineer corps of that state militia, the membership of which consists largely of School of Mines Students…. The immense auditorium, occupying the third floor, is apparently perfect in acoustic properties, and in every way the new armory is a model of beauty and convenience.
Family Ties
That article was reprinted from the Craig Empire. The two papers often shared content, probably because of their familial ties. The Transcript was founded by George West. Both his son, Harley, and his son-in-law, George Kimball, worked as editors at the Transcript. After George West’s death, Harley took over the Transcript. Kimball moved to Craig (about 40 miles west of Steamboat Springs) to run their paper. George West’s grandson, Neil West Kimball, wrote for both papers over the course of his career.
Golden's Armory
During World War I, various groups of soldiers were housed in the Armory. After the War, the building served many purposes, including classrooms, sleeping rooms, a hotel, headquarters for the National Guard, and--currently, co-working space.
