Silver Dollar Saloon
Year Listed: 2008
County: Teller County
Status: ALERT
Date Constructed: 1899
Significance:
The Silver Dollar Saloon is one of the many buildings rebuilt in 1899 following a fire that destroyed most of downtown. Starting out as a haberdashery, its upper floors housed medical offices. At the height of the Art Deco era, the first floor was transformed into a saloon. The owners spared no expense in order to attract patrons, as evidenced by the surviving Can Can stage, dining booths, bar stools, counter and mural. One of only two stone buildings in the mostly brick downtown National Register district, the saloon retains an incredibly high level of integrity, with architectural features such as a boxed cornice, molded frieze and a battlement parapet.
Threat When Listed:
The 1950s brought an end to the hard rock mining era, leading to a slow economic decline that forced residents to search for jobs elsewhere. During this time the Silver Dollar Saloon was boarded up, and the building has been in decline ever since. While nearby Cripple Creek has seen an economic resurgence due to legalized gaming, Victor still struggles with attracting tourists and stabilizing the economy – many buildings downtown are for sale. The original storefronts are boarded up, but retain their original configuration. While the interior of the first floor is intact, there is extensive water damage to the second floor. The building has recently been sold, and while the new owner supports the preservation of the structure, there are no funds for its rehabilitation. The Silver Dollar Saloon is in the heart of downtown Victor’s historic district, and its loss due to roof failure or an unsympathetic owner would harm the revitalization efforts of the community.
Since Listing:
Last Update:
February 2008