About us
311–313 Harrison Ave in Leadville, Colorado, stands as a remarkable testament to the rich history of one of America’s most storied mining towns. Leadville, founded in 1877 during the Colorado Silver Boom, quickly became one of the wealthiest and most famous mining towns in the world. Harrison Avenue, named after Edwin Harrison, an early Leadville entrepreneur, evolved into the bustling central thoroughfare of this vibrant town. Buildings along Harrison Avenue, including 311–313, were constructed to serve the influx of miners, entrepreneurs, and adventurers seeking their fortunes in the Rocky Mountains.
Over the decades, these structures housed a variety of businesses, including bustling saloons, brothels, and general stores, encapsulating the spirit of resilience and adaptation of the West. Through the years, 311–313 Harrison Ave has undergone numerous transformations, mirroring the evolution of Leadville itself. From "The Famous Shoe House" in 1881 to the Trimble/Hunter Bank in the early 1900s, and several different restaurants in the 2000s, the building has always carried the name “The Famous.” An early photograph of Harrison Ave reveals “The Famous” building, and a remastered image now hangs over our fireplace.
In 2016, our ownership group purchased the property and embarked on the journey of restoring this historic building to its former glory. The architectural styles have been meticulously preserved and restored, ensuring that the facades continue to tell the story of Leadville’s vibrant past. The ceiling planks in the commercial space are the 150-year-old repurposed floor joists that were removed to accommodate our new concrete floor. The second story was renovated to include eight efficiency apartments that house local employees of “The Famous,” “City on a Hill Coffee,” and others living and working in Leadville.
Downstream Construction of Leadville, along with other contractors, completed this project in 2024. Today, visitors to 311–313 Harrison Ave can experience a piece of Colorado’s heritage, as the building remains a vital part of the historical fabric of Leadville, offering a tangible connection to the town’s illustrious and dynamic history.