Before the white man, there were the Utes. The Saguache County Museum (pronounced Sa-watch) occupies an adobe building partially constructed in 1870. It has functioned over the years as a school, temporary courthouse, and a residence for jail-keepers and their families. The old jail, built in 1908, is an adobe building finished with stucco. The interior has a sheriff's office, a women's or V.I.P. cell, and a large room or "bull pen" with an escape-proof maximum security "cage". This jail was used until 1958. Original graffiti done by prisoners still adorns the walls.

Historic, nostalgic, memorable, and educational are some of the words that describe a visit to the Saguache County Museum. In an age when we are spoiled with easily acquired (and soon discarded) possessions, we can step into the past here and learn from earlier generations. They had to be able to create most of the items they needed, first in order simply to survive, and later to bring more comfort into their lives. They used and cherished their possessions, passing them on to the next generation to save or use until they were worn out or no longer needed.

The history of Saguache, and our exhibits, are spiced with the story of railroad mogul Otto Mears, Ute Chief Ouray and Chipeta; Spanish and other Native American tribes.

Our museum includes historical artifacts concerning Alferd E. Packer, who was charged in 1874 with murdering, robbing and eating portions of his five prospecting companions. Staffers are prepared to relate the puzzling story of this man, who was at first condemned to death, escaped, recaptured and given the sentence of 40 years for voluntary manslaughter.

Looking to take a walking tour of the town's Historic District? Here is a PDF that you can print out and take a walk through history.
 
The Saguache Museum also manages the restored Hazard House Museum (just down the block at 917 Pitkin), built in 1913. The house was a gift to the Museum from Georgie Marie Hazard Givan in 1994. It was opened to the public in May, 1997. The home depicts the affluent life-style and furnishings of the wealthier Saguache families of the 1920s and 1930s.