South Platte Valley Historical Society
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Donelson House

The Donelson Homestead House was the home of Thomas and Laura Aiken Donelson.  Thomas came to Colorado in 1859 with the gold rush to the rockies.

RETURN TO HISTORIC PARK
1860's Era Farm House

Thomas Donelson was from Wisconsin and staked a claim along the Platte River in an area that was near what is now the town of Brighton.  Returning to Wisconsin, Thomas brought his family, which included his wife Laura and their children Mary Maria, Eleanor, Thomas, John and James.  At first the family lived in a cabin along the river. However, after large flooding in 1864, Thomas began building the current house on higher ground.  
Picture
This photo shows the Donelson House in 1893.  Standing in front by the gate is Thomas' third wife Mary Ann.  Thomas is leaning on the fence.  His daughter Mary is leaning on the hitching post and his son Tommy is sitting on the hitching post.  The Donelson House in the historic park has been restored to what you see in this photo

A visit to the Donelson House will transport you back to the 1890's, to a farmstead home with the furnishings of that time.  Below are some images of the things you will see up close.  
Donelson House Teas:


"Teas" are held periodically in the Donelson House.  These events are modeled after the English "Afternoon Tea." To see more information, click here: TEAS

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