Rep. Boebert Supports Preservation of Historic Cardiff Coke Ovens
Congresswoman Lauren Boebert strongly supported the efforts of the Glenwood Springs Historical Society and their grant application to preserve the Cardiff Coke Ovens.
Congresswoman Lauren Boebert stated, “The Cardiff Coke Ovens helped build Colorado and the West and are a unique landmark worthy of preservation. The ovens once burned coal to create coke which was then used to make steel used in railroad tracks throughout the country. I am working in conjunction with local stakeholders to preserve Colorado’s unique history and culture for the next generation.”
Garfield County Commissioner John Martin said, “Garfield County is attempting to help save local history and recognize the contribution of the Glenwood Springs area to the Industrial Revolution.”
Glenwood Springs City Councilman Tony Hershey said, “Maintaining Colorado’s history is so important. I’m grateful for Congresswoman Boebert’s support of the Cardiff Coke Ovens preservation effort, something that also has the backing of the City.”
Background:
The Cardiff Coke Ovens are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Congresswoman Boebert supports their preservation as do the Glenwood Springs Historical Society, the Glenwood Springs City Council, and the Garfield County Federal Mineral Lease District.
Once Glenwood Springs’ South Bridge project is complete, the Cardiff Coke Ovens could become an easily accessible and popular tourist site. In June, Congresswoman Lauren Boebert sent a letter supporting Glenwood Springs’ grant application for the South Bridge project, stating, “The Glenwood Springs’ South Bridge Project has strong local support…This project is critical to provide a secondary evacuation route in the event of a wildfire, coal seam fire, or other natural disaster threatening Glenwood Springs. This worthwhile project will also help reduce congestion along the I-70 corridor. I am grateful to local officials for working with me on this issue in a bipartisan manner, and I look forward to seeing the South Bridge Project completed.”
The full text of Congresswoman Boebert’s letter supporting the preservation of the Cardiff Coke Ovens is available here and below:
Dear Mr. Eidman:
I write in strong support of the Glenwood Springs Historical Society’s grant application to the Colorado State Historical Fund competitive mini grant program, and in support of the Cardiff Coke Ovens preservation effort. The Board’s work to take ownership of the site to preserve the historic Cardiff Coke Ovens in Garfield County is commendable, and it’s request for funding to help preserve this Colorado landmark which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places has genuine merit.
Established in the 1880s, the Cardiff Coke Ovens located near Glenwood Springs once burned coal at high temperatures to roast out the impurities and create coke necessary for steel production, which industry then used to build the railways that helped Colorado prosper. These Coke Ovens are a significant part of Colorado’s mining history, and the Cardiff Coke Ovens site has potential to be preserved in a way which will promote safe public access and a unique visitor experience.
The Glenwood Springs Historical Society’s work and efforts coordinating with Garfield County and the City of Glenwood Springs to fully improve this landmark speaks to the feasibility of the project’s completion. Economic benefits of historic preservation are well-documented, and the funds requested to preserve the Cardiff Coke Ovens will also help enhance local pride for the residents of Glenwood Springs. From stabilization of the highest priority ovens to protection of remaining oven ruins, to interpretation of the historic elements, security, and accessibility—the board’s comprehensive approach and efforts to save this site are worthy of Colorado’s State Historical Fund’s consideration. Please contact me anytime if I can ever be of assistance.
Sincerely,
Lauren Boebert
U.S. Congresswoman (CO-03)