Pillars of P.O.W. Camp 202
Year Listed: 2005
County: Weld County
Status: PROGRESS
Context: Military
Date Constructed: 1940s
Significance:
Two stone pillars along the business loop of U.S. Highway 34 west of Greeley are all that remain of what was once a 320 acre World War II prisoner-of-war camp. The camp was significant to the history of many communities in northeastern Colorado because German and Italian inmates, many of whom spoke English, were allowed to work for local farmers, filling job openings created by U.S. servicemen sent to war. The prisoners developed congenial relationships with local U.S. residents, many of whom spoke German and were of German descent. When the war ended, some of the prisoners settled in northern Colorado. Others, and their descendants, still make pilgrimages from Europe to visit the site.
Threat When Listed:
Highway expansion.
CBS4's Report: Pillars of P.O.W. Camp 202
Since Listing:
Colorado Preservation, Inc. contacted the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), who subsequently met with local supporters to acknowledge that the pillars are original to the camp and are significant in the local history of Greeley. CDOT agreed that if the road project does occur, they would move the pillars to a site nearby and construct a roadside pulloff with interpretive signage. The suggested site would place the pillars on the same side of the road and within viewing distance of the original camp. The City of Greeley completed an application for local landmark designation and is working with the owner to complete the process. The City of Greeley Museum is interested in conducting archaeological studies, has begun an oral history project, and completed a documentary film about the site. The video relates the story of the World War II camp, the German prisoners, area farmers who worked with prisoners, local citizens and the only visible remains of Camp 202, the two stone pillars. The video is available for purchase from the City of Greeley.
Related Links:
City of Greeley
Last Updated:
July 2006