Right here at 1340 Pennsylvania Street stands a testament to a remarkable woman. This is the Molly Brown House Museum. It was once home to Margaret Brown. Many called her Molly after her death. She was an American philanthropist, activist, and socialite. But she is best known as the “Unsinkable Molly Brown”.
Margaret survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic. She earned the name “Heroine of the Titanic” for helping other survivors. The Molly Brown House Museum showcases her extraordinary life. It also presents exhibits about Victorian Denver. And it highlights the importance of historic preservation. This house earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. It is also a designated Denver Landmark.
William A Lang designed this beautiful house in 1889. It blends Queen Anne style with Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Isaac and Mary Large were the original owners. But after the repeal of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act in 1893, the Larges sold the house.
James Joseph Brown, Molly’s husband, bought the house in 1894 for $30000. In 1898, the title was transferred to Margaret. This may have been because of J.J.’s declining health.
The Browns loved to travel. They often rented out their home. In 1902, the governor of Colorado and his family lived here. Margaret invited them while the governor’s mansion was being remodeled. Later in 1926, Margaret turned the house into a boarding house. Her housekeeper supervised it.
After Margaret’s death in 1932, the house was sold for just $6000. It then served many purposes. It was a rooming house for men. It was a Jane Addams Hull House settlement. And it was even a set of rooms and apartments for rent.
By 1970, the house had fallen into disrepair. There were concerns it would be demolished. But a group of concerned citizens formed Historic Denver, Inc. They raised funds to restore the house to its former glory.
The restoration team used architectural research. They analyzed paint chips. And they studied original photographs from 1910. This ensured accuracy. Historic Denver, Inc. now owns the Molly Brown House Museum. Public tours are available daily for a fee. The house has been a museum since 1971.
Margaret’s adventures extended far beyond Denver. On the Titanic’s fateful voyage, she displayed incredible courage. After the ship struck an iceberg, she helped others into lifeboats. Once aboard a lifeboat, she urged the crew to return and search for more survivors. Her bravery earned her the nickname “The Unsinkable Molly Brown”.
Inside the Molly Brown House Museum, you can explore exhibits. They bring Margaret’s story to life. Imagine the elegant furnishings. They reflect the Victorian era. Picture Margaret hosting prominent guests. And envision her championing causes she believed in.
The Molly Brown House Museum stands as a symbol of her remarkable life. It reminds us of her courage, compassion, and dedication to making a difference. As you leave, consider how one person’s actions can inspire generations. The spirit of Molly Brown lives on in this house. It continues to inspire all who visit.