Breckenridge is widely known for its world-class ski resort, a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, and year-round outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and festivals. But this charming mountain town is so much more. Breckenridge boasts one of the largest historic districts in the state of Colorado and was founded in 1859 by a small group of Gold Rush prospectors seeking their fortunes. From brothels and saloons to booms and busts, Breckenridge has many stories to tell. So if you’re a history buff looking to learn about our gold rush history or just a spooky-season lover looking to raise some neck hairs, you’ve made it to the right place. Explore Breckenridge’s oldest and most haunted buildings and the stories behind them.
The Gold Pan Saloon
During the gold rush, a tented structure known as Long’s Saloon opened for business as a local watering hole to thirsty miners in 1861, with the permanent building being erected in 1879. In one form or another, The Gold Pan Saloon has stood for over 140 years, outlasting the Prohibition, playing host to gun fights, and boasting the longest continuous liquor license west of the Mississippi.
The most well-known ghost story involves an old madame who is said to watch over the saloon. Owners and guests of the saloon have described experiences such as flickering lights and doors opening on their own. Several tenants of the upper apartments have also noted the presence of a woman waking them up with the cold sensations of touch on their cheeks.
Today, locals and visitors alike come for the food, atmosphere and libations, and stay for the dancing and DJs come late night. The Gold Pan has recently added another chapter with the addition of Carboy Winery, a unique Colorado winery offering tasty bites and a selection of select Carboy wines in bottle and on TAP!
The Prospector
Originally constructed in 1892 as a lodging establishment for miners, then later a hotel and restaurant, The Whitehead Building holds significant historical value, earning its place on the National Register of Historic Places. The building is noteworthy for its elegant Victorian-era design, featuring wood-frame construction with a front-gabled layout.
According to stories, the ghost of a miner’s widow and one of the building’s former residents, Sylvia, still haunts the second floor after passing away from illness. While there have been stories of her trying to get “rid” of wives or girlfriends of men who have occupied the home, she is described as a (mostly) friendly, helpful spirit who sometimes tidies up by starting the water in the sink when there are dirty dishes, folding laundry or organizing kitchen supplies. Some say they can feel a presence sitting on the bed while they’re sleeping, and many swear they’ve seen a woman in a white lace dress looking out the upper window onto Main Street.
In 1970, the building underwent renovation, and has since been home to many different restaurants. It currently houses the Prospector restaurant, locally known as a cocktail haven. Swing by this elegant space on Main Street to enjoy elevated drinks, small plates, dinner and more!
- Local’s Tip: Lore suggests that Silvia only reveals herself to males, still in hopes of finding a mate to take care of her. If you visit the restaurant today, stop at the stairs near the back of the building by the restrooms. If you’re male, you may just witness her at her favorite hang out.
The Country Boy Mine
Country Boy Mine, located in the famous French Gulch area, was founded in 1887 and is one of the oldest mines in Summit County, Colorado. In 1991, the Tomlinson Brothers, along with their families, dreamed of restoring the collapsed mine and site into a historical venue. Country Boy Mine was known for its gold and silver production and later earned national fame by producing large quantities of high grade lead and zinc for use in World War I and World War II. The valuable ore brought out of the Mine played a significant role in shaping the west and bringing prosperity to the U.S.
Owner Paul Hintgen has heard spooky stories from tour guides, including reports of being shoved while in the mine and receiving mysterious phone calls while underground and without cell reception. He’s even had numerous visitors email him about photos they’ve taken in the mine that show ghostly apparitions, orbs, or auras appearing which were not visible to the naked eye.
Today, Country Boy Mine offers underground tours, gold panning in Eureka Creek, burro rides, and endless hours of family-friendly fun year-round. Delve 1,000 ft. into the mountain and experience life as a Colorado miner from a century ago and see what you can find (or find on your camera)!
- Local’s Tip: This is the perfect adventure for a rainy or snowy days! The mine stays a consistent temperature year-round and provides a great shield from the elements.
The Historic Brown
Originally built as a historic hotel in 1860, this haunted Breckenridge building has witnessed the passage of time through multiple roles – from a hotel to a fine dining restaurant to a live music venue. In the 1800s, it held the honor of housing the first and only bathtub in Summit County, which was used extensively by traveling cowboys and those on the quest for gold.
The echoes of its history have given rise to numerous tales and legends, adding to its already captivating narrative. Stories have been told of murder scandals and occult magic, leading to the Historic Brown being known as one of Breckenridge’s most haunted buildings. Photos of orbs and mysterious lights have been captured by ghost tour-goers and bar patrons over the last few decades. Now, as a renovated historic landmark, this home stands as a rare opportunity to become part of Breckenridge’s vibrant history.
While not open to the public, the Brown is under private ownership and offers the opportunity to stay in the very building that has borne witness to generations of stories, from the wild frontier days to the modern era of luxury living.
- Local’s Tip: You’ll stop here on one of many Breckenridge walking history tours as well as the Breckenridge Ghost Tour!
The Barney Ford House
Barney Ford is widely known as the first black businessman in Breckenridge. Over the course of his life, he fought through racism, claim jumping, fires and financial hardship, eventually to become one of Colorado’s leading businessmen and civil rights pioneers. Born into slavery in 1822 and later escaping in 1848 thanks to the Underground Railroad, he was able to make it to the Rockies later in life after the gold rush. He and his wife built the home on Main Street, which has now stood for over 130 years.
Today, the Barney Ford House Museum has been restored to its original Victorian style and shares the remarkable story of Barney Ford’s life. Throughout the years, staff members and museum goers have reported many incidences of spiritual activity. While some believe Ford is watching over his home, there are others who believe the spirit of a Dentist, who owned the home after Ford, is the ghost at work. After cheating scandals, murders and foul play with his business, he has all the reason to be trapped within the home. Consistent reports of indentations on the bed have been seen, as well as knocking noises, CD players suddenly turning on, wall hangings going out of alignment and brochures flying off tables. There have even been ghost sightings behind the home and disembodied voices and coughs right in people’s ears.
Experience the museum for yourself with free guided tours on the hour to learn about Ford, his hardships, and accomplishments.
The Historic Dredge / Ollie’s Pub
Built in the Blue River Valley around 1918, the historic Blue River dredge boat operated until 1937, serving as a newer mining method once the rivers had been mined out and gold became harder to find. There were 9 dredge boats operating in the Breckenridge area between 1898 and 1942, and while they were fast and used the greatest amount of technological expertise, they also caused the most environmental damage by “dredging” around 70 feet into the earth below the water.
While the employers loved this new form of mining, the miners did not. Working the dredges was a dangerous job, due to the risks of drowning (many miners couldn’t swim back then), electrical issues and mechanical problems like getting caught in the dredge conveyor belts. Numerous deaths due to these factors are documented.
After renovations, many restaurants have called the dredge home over the last few decades. Bartenders and waitstaff have many tales, one of which describes them seeing only the upper body of a man behind the bar, looking for a drink. workers have expressed feelings of unease particularly in the locker room, which is located in the bowels of the boat. Many have seen orbs and flashing lights moving throughout the boat, even after closing. Could these be the spirits of the lost miners who used to work here?
Today, the boat is now home to Ollie’s Pub and Grub. This popular sports bar pours craft brews alongside 16 HDTVs offering every major sports package and a raucous cheer-your-heart-out ambiance. Ask about daily specials and don’t hesitate to sample a tap that piques your curiosity. Wings and burgers are popular menu picks here and the kitchen is open until midnight.
- Local’s Tip: After you’ve visited the Blue River Dredge and Ollie’s, be sure to check out the Reiling Dredge, one of the best preserved and accessible dredge boats in North America. Guided tours are offered through Breckenridge History.
More Spooky Places in Breckenridge
Edwin Carter Museum
150 years ago, Edwin Carter started a museum in his cabin showcasing 3,300 taxidermied animals. Today, we operate the Edwin Carter Museum in the same building. In his lifetime, Carter was a pioneer, a gold prospector, and a naturalist. His specimens even went on to become the founding collection of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. He is currently buried in Valley Brook Cemetery. Learn about Carter’s life and work and see a few of his original specimens at the Edwin Carter Museum on your own or on a tour through Breckenridge History.
Valley Brook Cemetery
Valley Brook Cemetery, on the National Register of Historic Places, is Breckenridge’s only currently operating cemetery, built in 1882. Valley Brook reveals ornate, carved gravestones representing some of the town’s earliest art and written history. Walk through the cemetery on the “Tombstone Tales” tour provided by Breckenridge History.
Information for this article was sourced from Breckenridge History, Gail Westood’s “Haunted Breckenridge” book, and local stories from those who’ve lived in and seen Breckenridge’s haunted buildings and spirits. Copies of the book can be found at Peekaboo Toys on Main Street, and you can take her ghost tours at Breckenridge Tours.
Discover more Breckenridge Museums and Historic Tours!
