The city of Durango Historic Preservation Board and the La Plata County Historic Preservation Commission, in partnership with the Animas Museum, Center of Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College, Pine River Valley Heritage Society, Bayfield Museum and Heritage Society, and Ignacio Community Library have launched the Then and Now Postcard Challenge, a summer 2026 activity for fourth and fifth grade students throughout La Plata County.
Created as part of Colorado’s 150th anniversary celebration, the challenge encourages students to connect with local history by exploring historic sites in their communities. The program is designed for students who have recently completed Colorado History studies in school.
Through the program website (sites.google.com/view/Colorado-then-now), students can view historical photographs of buildings, bridges, and other notable locations in Durango, Bayfield, Ignacio, and throughout La Plata County. Participants are invited to visit these sites, take current photographs from a similar vantage point, and upload their images along with a brief description to create a “then and now” comparison.
The challenge launched at the end of the school year and will remain open until Aug. 25. The program will conclude with a community celebration at Durango Public Library on Sept. 12, when student submissions will be displayed and participants can enjoy an ice cream social.
