“That cast iron facade. Isn’t it magnificent?”
The A.H. Root Building stands proudly before us. A testament to Denver’s rich history. This isn’t just any building. It’s a piece of Denver’s past. Built in 1884 for businessman Amos H. Root. It’s one of the city’s last remaining cast iron structures. Imagine the bustle of activity it has witnessed over the years.
Amos H. Root himself was quite a character. Born in New York. He served in the Civil War. He even escaped from Confederate captivity by swimming the Mississippi River at night. After the war he moved to Colorado. He became a successful businessman. A cigar and tobacco wholesaler. He even helped found the North Denver Bank. His building here reflects his ambition and success.
The A.H. Root Building has seen a lot. First a drugstore. Then a furniture store. A warehouse. Even a rooming house. Later it housed George Washington Olinger’s Highland Casket Company. Can you picture the caskets being made inside those very walls? The building’s history is as diverse as Denver itself.
The building’s first floor showcases its remarkable cast iron construction. Strong columns and beams. They support two upper floors of sturdy brick. These architectural features are unique. They are a snapshot of the commercial architecture of the late 19th century. The A.H. Root Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. It’s recognized for its association with Amos H. Root. Its architectural significance is also important. Its role in downtown Denver’s commercial development is undeniable. This building is a true Denver landmark.
Standing here today we can almost feel the echoes of the past. The footsteps of countless individuals who walked these very streets. The A.H. Root Building. A silent observer of Denver’s transformation. A symbol of its enduring spirit. Remember its story. Remember its impact. Remember the A.H. Root Building.