One hundred years ago, Meeker was a typical western town of frame buildings and dirt roads with nary a tree in sight. Now it is a beautiful and thriving community, rich in history. The History of Meeker can be seen first hand by visiting the White River Museum! You won't be able to miss the rough hewn log buildings which store the treasures of the White River Valley. The original structure was built in 1880 as quarters for U.S. Army officers. The army pulled out in 1883 and sold the block of buildings to the town for $50. The museum was a private residence until 1945. The Garrison building, which recently underwent major renovation, was a residence until 1995, and the corner building continues to be a private home. Photos of early settlers and structures garnish the walls. A small room is devoted to pictures and information about the town, Nathan C. Meeker and his family.
You'll find dresses, wedding gowns, hats and jewelry, from the late 1800's through the 40's, and on. If you don't find the large Victorian wreath made of human hair, make sure and ask someone. It truly is exquisite. There are uniforms from every branch of the service, worn by Meeker men in wars going back to WWI. Through personal belongings you'll meet people who've added color to the Meeker landscape. You can see Rory White's bear hide coat. Rory was the stagecoach driver between Rifle and Meeker at the turn of the century. Only in high summer was he seen without his bear hide coat! You can read articles about the "real" facts behind the Meeker Massacre, and on the spot coverage of the Meeker bank robbery in 1896. An extensive firearm collection includes rifles used in the Civil War and a Colt Frontier six-shooter that was taken from the Meeker bank robbers. You won't want to miss seeing Chief Colorow's peace pipe, or the pair of moccasins made by a Ute woman for a pioneer boy. You can see the original hand printing press brought to Meeker in 1885 from Leadville by wagon to print The Meeker Herald weekly newspaper - which, by the way, is still in circulation. No matter what strikes your interest as you walk through the museum, let your imagination take hold. These pieces of furniture, these pictures, and personal treasures are truly the pioneer west! The White River Museum is located at 565 Park Street, behind the red flagstone Rio Blanco County Courthouse, one block from downtown Meeker. Winter hours December -Mid April 10:00-4:00 Summer Hours Mid April- December 9:00-5:00. Please feel free to call 970-878-9982 for more information. If you would like to know more about Meeker and the White River Valley, call the Meeker Chamber of Commerce at 970-878-5510. Admission is free. Donations are greatly appreciated. Thank you from the Rio Blanco County Historical Society. Back to top of page
Text taken from the White River Museum brochure ©1999 Rio Blanco Historical Society, written by Kristine M. Hicken. Photos by Lee Raine. | 
