Historic All-Black Fire Station Added to National Register of Historic Places

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DENVER — November 12, 2024 — History Colorado and Denver Fire Department are proud to announce that Fire Station No. 3 – also known by its motto “Pride of the Points” – has been added to the National Register of Historic Places as part of History Colorado’s Colorado Heritage for All Initiative. Owned and operated by Denver Fire Department since 1931, Fire Station No. 3 is Denver’s longest continually operated firehouse, and is being recognized due to the valor and dedication of the all-Black fire crews who served the multicultural Five Points Neighborhood faithfully in the face of segregationist policies from 1931 – 1957.

“Fire Station No. 3 is a beautiful building that is a testament to the bravery and community leadership of the all-Black firefighting crew with decades of service,” said Dawn DiPrince, president/CEO of History Colorado and State Historic Preservation Officer. “Our team is grateful to be able to work alongside community members to add Fire Station No. 3 into the State and National Historic Register. Our Colorado Heritage for All Initiative is dedicated to ensuring important history like this is represented in the official historic memory and exists far into the future.”

Located at 2500 N Washington Street in Five Points, Station No. 3 is a single story Spanish bungalow-style firehouse constructed from various hues of red and brown bricks. The building was purposely built to fit into the surrounding architecture but includes several decorative embellishments including a white stone belt that wraps around the entirety of the building.

While many of the structures surrounding Station No.3 have been redeveloped, the firehouse has maintained an incredible level of historic integrity. The continuity of the building helps maintain the community’s connection to the station’s historic role as an oasis where community members could go for safety, as well as everything from car repairs to haircuts during Denver’s segregated past.

“Station No. 3 has been, and still is, a cornerstone of the Five Points neighborhood,” said Terri Gentry, engagement manager for Black communities at History Colorado. “Its story is one of courage, dedication and love in the face of discrimination. The men and women who have served there had a higher calling to save the lives and property of the entire community and I am so happy to see them finally be honored in this way for the sacrifices they made.”

The longevity of Station No. 3 is due to the commitment from the community to protect this historical treasure. A powerful example of the community’s dedication to protecting Station No. 3 came in the 1970s when the station was being decommissioned and its crew disbanded. When the community became aware, they petitioned department leadership and the firehouse was reinstated.

During the process, Station No.3 was closed and unstaffed for only 24 hours.

“Being recognized on the National Register of Historic Places is a significant honor for Station No. 3, as it not only highlights the historical and cultural importance of the fire department but also emphasizes the legacy and enduring value of the department within the community,” said Denver Fire Chief Desmond G. Fulton. “This designation honors the resilience and contributions of African American firefighters who served this community during a challenging time in our history and underscores the importance of Station No. 3 as not just a facility, but a heritage site that reflects the bravery and dedication of all firefighters who have served for generations. This recognition increases the public awareness and support for the Denver Fire Department, and the brave men and women who selflessly serve their fellow citizens, while also strengthening community ties and enhancing their role in preserving local history.”

To commemorate Fire Station No.3 being added to the National Register of Historic Places, Denver Fire Department will be hosting a recognition celebration on November 14 from 12:30 – 1 p.m. This celebration will be at Station No. 3 located at 2500 Washington St., Denver, and will include remarks from Mayor of Denver Mike Johnston; Denver Fire Chief Desmond G. Fulton; and Dawn DiPrince, President/CEO of History Colorado and State Historic Preservation Officer.