In 1896, on the 25th anniversary of the founding of Colorado Springs by General William Jackson Palmer, citizens were aware that their rich geographic and cultural history was rapidly changing. As a result, a group of individuals formed the El Paso County Pioneers’ Association to begin collecting and documenting the history of the Pikes Peak Region. In 1937, the collection was given to the City of Colorado Springs and became the CSPM. Located in various buildings over the years, the museum moved to its current home in the 1903 El Paso County Courthouse. Today, the CSPM is guided by its mission to “build a lasting connection to the Pikes Peak region by preserving and sharing our cultural history” and accomplishes this mission through innovative exhibits, powerful educational outreach and programming, and preservation of its extensive artifact and archival collections. Every year 100,000 visitors to explore and engage in the history of the Pikes Peak Region.
Fully accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, and winner of local and national awards for excellence, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience for people of all ages and interests.
The CSPM operates as a public-private partnership with the City of Colorado Springs (City) and the City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services. The museum is funded through annual appropriations from the City and a robust philanthropic arm that includes foundations, individuals, businesses and events.