DSCN3025
Denver's history of boiler houses is tied to the nation's oldest continuous district steam heating system, started in 1880 by the Denver City Steam Heating Co. This system, powered by boiler houses, delivered steam to downtown buildings, offering a safer alternative to numerous individual, on-site boilers that posed explosion risks, such as the fatal 1895 Gumry Hotel explosion. The system, which grew to include the CB&Q Powerhouse and the boiler house of the Denver Medical Depot, has continuously evolved to supply steam for heating and cooling.
The Rise of Centralized Steam Heating
1879-1880:
Local businessmen formed the Denver City Steam Heating Co., installing a Holly district steam system and beginning steam service on November 5, 1880.
Safety & Growth:
The system provided a safer alternative to the dangerous on-site coal-fired boilers that were common in Denver and other cities at the time. A major boost to the system's popularity came after the 1895 Gumry Hotel boiler explosion, which killed 22 people, highlighting the risks of individual boilers.
By the late 1880s, the system was expanded with new boilers and a larger distribution pipe network.
The System's Evolution
Ownership Changes:
In 1909, the system was acquired by the Denver Gas and Electric Co., which later became part of the Public Service Company of Colorado.
Technological Advancements:
Engineers continued to upgrade the system, with innovations like using steam from a new turbine to supply the downtown network in 1949.
Boiler Houses:
Boiler houses, such as the one at the former CB&Q Denver Shops and the 1942 Denver Medical Depot, were crucial industrial landmarks, providing heat for large complexes.
Enduring Legacy
Longevity:
The Denver system is recognized as the oldest continuously operating commercial district heating system in the world.
Current Operation:
The network continues to supply steam to customers in downtown Denver, although its future is uncertain.
DSCN3025
Denver's history of boiler houses is tied to the nation's oldest continuous district steam heating system, started in 1880 by the Denver City Steam Heating Co. This system, powered by boiler houses, delivered steam to downtown buildings, offering a safer alternative to numerous individual, on-site boilers that posed explosion risks, such as the fatal 1895 Gumry Hotel explosion. The system, which grew to include the CB&Q Powerhouse and the boiler house of the Denver Medical Depot, has continuously evolved to supply steam for heating and cooling.
The Rise of Centralized Steam Heating
1879-1880:
Local businessmen formed the Denver City Steam Heating Co., installing a Holly district steam system and beginning steam service on November 5, 1880.
Safety & Growth:
The system provided a safer alternative to the dangerous on-site coal-fired boilers that were common in Denver and other cities at the time. A major boost to the system's popularity came after the 1895 Gumry Hotel boiler explosion, which killed 22 people, highlighting the risks of individual boilers.
By the late 1880s, the system was expanded with new boilers and a larger distribution pipe network.
The System's Evolution
Ownership Changes:
In 1909, the system was acquired by the Denver Gas and Electric Co., which later became part of the Public Service Company of Colorado.
Technological Advancements:
Engineers continued to upgrade the system, with innovations like using steam from a new turbine to supply the downtown network in 1949.
Boiler Houses:
Boiler houses, such as the one at the former CB&Q Denver Shops and the 1942 Denver Medical Depot, were crucial industrial landmarks, providing heat for large complexes.
Enduring Legacy
Longevity:
The Denver system is recognized as the oldest continuously operating commercial district heating system in the world.
Current Operation:
The network continues to supply steam to customers in downtown Denver, although its future is uncertain.