Historic Walking Tour
157 West Elkhorn
The original building on this property was built in 1907. It was the portion with the steeple on the NE corner facing Elkhorn Ave, called the Community Church of the Rockies and was built by the parishioners. 75 years later during renovation engineers were amused amazed and intrigued by some of the structures created in those days but they mostly left them alone because they worked.
By 1929 the congregation had outgrown the tiny space and the SE portion was added. That was also probably built by the parishioners.
In 1954 the whole western section was added for classroom and community gathering rooms. The builder was Henry Dannels, father of a recent mayor, and grandfather to an artist still living in Estes Park.
In 1981 the building was sold to Peter and Maureen Marsh and opened May of 1982 as a boutique shopping mall, called "The Old Church Shops". Here you could find many services and independent retailers when visiting West Elkhorn Avenue including dining, coffee shop, ATM & restrooms. Over the years The Old Church Shops was a sort of 'nursery' for many new businesses in Estes Park, since it was difficult to open with a free standing building with huge expenses. Many fresh, young business people started in this place. (Information courtesy Old Church Shops)
In early 2022, the property was purchased by John Cullen, owner of the Stanley Hotel. He announced plans to change the façade of the building, and go back to the old white wood exterior, while creating a chocolate factory experience inside. In June 2023 the exterior is substantially complete, although supply issues have delayed the opening of the FO Stanley Chocolate Factory.
The Wild Rose Restaurant on the East end of the building is open today, as it has been throughout the renovation work.
Former use:
Presbyterian Church / Community Church
The Old Church Shops
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