Montview’s history reflects a combination of vision, leadership, hard work, sacrifice, innovation and service, all with the common purpose of living the word of Christ.

At the turn of the century, Denver’s residential areas were spreading eastward, and the Park Hill neighborhood was the site of new home building. Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church officially began on November 2, 1902.

During the 1950’s, the rapidly growing congregation completed the construction of our beautiful 1200-seat gothic sanctuary. The church was instrumental in the areas of social activism, children and youth education, and global mission programs.

During the mid-1960’s, the Park Hill neighborhood was challenged with becoming an interracial community. The Montview session together with other area churches led the changing community as it struggled with the development of an interracial neighborhood.

In the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, Montview continued to focus on social issues. In 1974, the church called itself, “an activist church and a leader in addressing major social issues.” The church tackled problems ranging from racial integration and organized crime to alienated youth and impoverished elderly. Throughout its history, Montview has been actively involved in local civic and social issues, and has championed openness and diversity. It continued to emphasize children and youth programs, and local and global missions. It also initiated community forums and lectureships for members and the community to discuss both religious and secular topics.

A co-pastor model of leadership began in 1975. Within this collegial framework, pastors shared equally in the leadership of the church. The co-pastors and the Session urged lay participation and implemented a revitalized adult education program, which focused on Bible study, spiritual growth and social issues. Global and local mission projects continued and the social action scope was expanded.

Montview Church Listed in the National Register of Historic Places and the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties

At a special ceremony in the Westminster Commons on Sunday, May 16, 2004, United States Congresswoman, Diana DeGette announced the listing of Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church in the National Register of Historic Places and the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties, in recognition of this property's contribution to the heritage of the State of Colorado.

Accompanying the official announcement was a letter from the State Historic Preservation Officer, Georgianna Contiguglia, in which she extended the congratulations of Governor Owens, the Colorado Historic Preservation Review Board, and the Colorado Historical Society for Montview's continuing interest in historic preservation.

This is the culmination of a multi-year nomination and selection process. The original idea of seeking inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places and the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties began during the planning stages for Montview's centennial celebration, about six years ago. Completion of the nomination forms and documentation of the architectural and social/cultural history was not accomplished early enough to have the process completed at the time of the centennial celebration in November 2002.

Montview's successful nomination form was developed by Nicole Hernandez, Sacred Landmarks Preservation Coordinator for Historic Denver, Inc. Nicole is the daughter of Jan and Alan Cartwright. Nicole grew up at Montview and participated in the Montview youth program only a few years ago

The public hearing on Montview's nomination took place in August 2003. In addition to Nicole's participation, Bud Starker and Bob Matchett presented additional background information on the church and its buildings. In September 2003 Montview was notified of its listing in the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties. At that time the nomination was awaiting determination by the Department of the Interior in Washington, D.C. as to whether the church would additionally be listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Word of inclusion on the National Register arrived at Montview toward the end of April 2004. Needless to say, WE ARE VERY HAPPY! After a rigorous nomination and screening process, to have been selected is considered a high honor. The legacy we, the present members, the session, the co-pastors and staff, are now enjoying is the result of the continuous forging of a strong architectural control over our various construction projects, beginning with the completion of the original permanent structure in 1910 - the East Wing (Heritage Center, Robinson Room and Montview Memorial Library and the Gates Room in the basement) and continuing through five additional major construction projects until the completion of the Westminster Commons in 1987. Additionally, the social/cultural history which has been developed over the 102 years since Montview's founding, includes innovative programming, outstanding music, daring ministry, continuous outreach to the Park Hill neighborhood and the Northeast Denver community, and a lot of "really good luck." At your next opportunity, take time to shake hands with each other and congratulate yourselves. It is a job well done!

The Montview Heritage Committee would like to thank all of those who participated in the preparation of the nomination forms (research and documentation) and to thank all members, clergy and staff who have participated in creating this wonderful church family, to the glory of God, in which we dwell as we keep up our faith journey.

In addition to the certificates, Montview will be purchasing a bronze plaque to be permanently placed in a prominent location indicating Montview's inclusion on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties.

Robert Matchett, Church Historian and Chairman, of the Montview Heritage Committee