Nestled in the heart of Colorado Springs, the Chadbourn Spanish Gospel Mission stands as a testament to resilience, community, and rich cultural heritage. This Mission Revival building, with its distinctive architectural style, is more than just a structure; it is a symbol of hope and unity for the Conejos District's Hispanic community. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, the mission has a storied past that continues to inspire visitors and locals alike.
The Chadbourn Spanish Gospel Mission's origins date back to 1928 when it began offering religious, educational, and community services to the residents of the Conejos District. The mission was the brainchild of Ruth Chadbourn, a dedicated Presbyterian nurse who had served as a missionary in Costa Rica. Seeking better health, she moved to Colorado Springs in the 1920s and found a new calling in supporting the local Hispanic community.
Initially, the building that houses the mission was constructed in 1910 as a grocery store. By 1930, it had been repurposed as a mission and was later purchased in 1934 by Chadbourn and the mission's trustees. The transformation of this humble frame building into a beacon of hope was supported by the Colorado Springs Ministerial Association, which provided funding and resources to ensure the mission's success.
The Conejos District, where the mission is located, has a rich history of its own. At the turn of the 20th century, it became home to a burgeoning Mexican community, many of whom had relocated to work in the nearby Denver & Rio Grande Railroad, mills, and mines. This influx of new residents brought vibrancy and diversity to the district, which had previously been inhabited by people of Scandinavian and Jewish heritage.
The district's boundaries are marked by Colorado Avenue to the north, Mill Street to the south, the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad yard to the east, and Monument Creek to the west. Families lived in modest frame houses on narrow lots, and local stores catered to the community's needs. Today, the Chadbourn Spanish Gospel Mission is the sole surviving structure from this once-thriving neighborhood.
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Between 1939 and 1940, the mission underwent significant renovations to adopt the Spanish Mission style. The building's distinctive features include a square bell tower, curvilinear parapets, overhanging eaves, exposed rafter tails, arches, and a stucco finish. These elements combine to create a visually striking and historically significant structure.
The renovations also saw the addition of a bell tower donated by Colorado College and stained glass panels from the First United Methodist Church. These enhancements not only beautified the mission but also reinforced its role as a community center. The mission offered a wide range of services, including Bible and Sunday School classes, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts meetings, sports teams for children, and adult education courses in music, sewing, and English language.
Throughout its history, the Chadbourn Spanish Gospel Mission has been a staunch advocate for the Hispanic community in Colorado Springs. During World War II, the mission's pastor, Rev. Jose Guzman, publicly condemned the discrimination faced by Hispanic workers who had come to build Camp Carson. His powerful words highlighted the injustice of fighting for equality on the battlefield while being denied basic rights at home.
In the post-war years, the mission continued to champion the rights of the Conejos District's residents. Dr. Harry Corney, a later pastor, called attention to the poor living conditions in the neighborhood, urging the wider community to recognize and address these issues. The mission's efforts were a shining example of inter-denominational and inter-racial understanding and goodwill.
In 1954, the homes and buildings in the Conejos District were demolished to make way for commercial and light industrial development. Despite these changes, the Chadbourn Spanish Gospel Mission remained a steadfast presence. In 2005, the completion of America the Beautiful Park across from the mission brought new life to the area, and the mission continued to serve its congregation, which included descendants of the original members.
In 2008, plans were announced to expand the church building, supported by grants made possible through rezoning and its listing on the National Register of Historic Places. This recognition ensures the mission's historic preservation and allows it to continue its vital work in the community.
Today, the Chadbourn Spanish Gospel Mission is a key stop on the Southwest Downtown walking tour in Colorado Springs. Visitors can admire its unique architectural features, learn about its rich history, and experience the enduring spirit of a community that has overcome adversity and thrived.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone looking to connect with a meaningful part of Colorado Springs' heritage, the Chadbourn Spanish Gospel Mission offers a glimpse into a past filled with resilience, compassion, and unity. Its walls echo the stories of countless individuals who have found solace, support, and a sense of belonging within its embrace. A visit to this remarkable mission is not just a journey through history but a celebration of the enduring power of community and faith.
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