“Longest, Wickedest Street in America” is how Colfax Avenue was once known. Today, we are standing in front of Colfax Events Center. It is located on this very street. This is a story about community, entertainment and a bit of wickedness.
Colfax Avenue’s story began with the Colorado Gold Rush. It was once called “The Golden Road”. Later, the name changed to honor Schuyler Colfax. He was a lawmaker instrumental in Colorado’s statehood.
Colfax Avenue quickly became home to saloons and brothels. By the late 19th century, a trolley car ran along the street. Hundreds visited daily.
Colfax Avenue became part of US 40. This made it a busy street in the 1950s. Eye-catching neon signs appeared to attract travelers. Restaurants, bars, and music venues thrived.
The Fillmore Auditorium stands as one of the historic music venues on Colfax. It adds to the street’s bright marquees.
The Center on Colfax has a rich history too. It began with the Gay Coalition of Denver in 1976. The center grew from advocacy work. Founders met in homes before finding an official space.
In 1973, the Gay Coalition of Denver held the “City Council Revolt”. This led to the repeal of four discriminatory laws.
The Gay Community Center of Colorado officially opened in August 1977. It later became The Center. The first Denver Pride Parade was in 1975. The Center was one of the original founders.
During the HIV/AIDS epidemic, The Center became vital. It founded the Colorado AIDS Project in 1983.
Anti-gay sentiment rose in the 1990s. Voters passed Amendment 2. It rescinded rights for LGBTQ people. The Supreme Court overturned Amendment 2 in 1996.
Today, Colfax is split into sectors. The area near downtown Denver is grungy-chic. It has bars, tattoo parlors and boutiques. Colfax prides itself on being unique and historical.
The Center on Colfax continues its work. It preserves LGBTQ history. It offers mental health support. The Terry Mangan Memorial Library holds over 2000 LGBTQ volumes. It is the largest such library in the state.
Colfax Avenue is ever-changing. It is a mix of past and future. Hair salons now stand where brothels once operated. Neon signs advertise modern businesses. This blend keeps Colfax delightfully weird. Colfax Events Center stands as a testament to this vibrant street. Its history is intertwined with community and entertainment.