McGraw Ranch
Colorado
McGraw Ranch prior to its restoration.
Credit: National Trust for Historic Preservation
Motivated in large part by a desire to reduce the maintenance backlog of $1.5 billion for historic structures in the National Park System, Rocky Mountain National Park proposed demolishing fifteen historic buildings at McGraw Ranch. The Park Service also believed that preserving the 160-acre ranch conflicted with its mission to protect natural resources in the park. In fact, the Park Service originally acquired McGraw Ranch, one of only two remaining dude ranches left in the park, in 1988 not to preserve its historic integrity but as habitat for elk. In response to this threat, the National Trust for Historic Preservation intervened and partnered with the Park Service to convert the ranch into the McGraw Ranch Research Center, which provides facilities for scientists conducting research in the park.
McGraw Ranch following its restoration.
Credit: National Trust for Historic Preservation
The National Trust raised more than $800,000 toward the $2 million project, receiving generous contributions from over 100 National Trust members along with grants from area foundations and the Colorado Historical Society's State Historical Fund. In addition, some 80 National Trust members volunteered their time and skills to assist with the rehabilitation of the ranch's log buildings during several volunteer work days. This creative, adaptive use of vacant historic buildings has become an influential national model, and is leading to several similar projects in other national parks. In 2001, the Park Service awarded the Rocky Mountain National Park Stewardship Award to the National Trust in recognition for its work on behalf of McGraw Ranch.
Submitted by Joe at: October 5, 2009
Three generations of my family were guests at the ranch over a period of 15+ years with my last visit in 2001 when the Ranch was under restoration. Cheri Yost has been a champion during this project. To her and to NTHP I, like Liz, say thank you and bravo!
Submitted by Liz at: September 27, 2009
As a long time supporter of the NTHP and as a former long time guest of the McGraw Ranch when I was was a child (late 60's- early 70's), let me just say..... THANK YOU!!!!!!!