**Steamboat Springs, Colorado-July 20, 2026-**One of downtown Steamboat Springs' most recognizable commercial buildings has officially been added to the Steamboat Springs Register of Historic Places, recognizing more than a century of architectural and historical significance. The Maxwell-Squire Building, located at 840 Lincoln Ave., was designated as a Local Landmark after meeting the city's historic eligibility criteria for its historical and architectural importance.
“The Maxwell-Squire Building isn't just significant because of its architecture—it's significant because of the memories it holds,” Caitlin Berube-Smith, Historic Preservation Planner. “The owner’s decision to place this iconic structure on our local register makes the Maxwell-Squire Building one of four structures in our Downtown National Register District that are safeguarded from demolition.”
Constructed in 1908, the Maxwell-Squire Building played a central role in Steamboat Springs' early commercial development. Named for James P. Maxwell, one of the city's founders, it was the largest commercial building in Steamboat Springs for more than 40 years. Since opening in 1909, it has housed generations of businesses, including today's Lyons Corner Drug, continuing a pharmacy tradition that dates back to the Chamberlain Gray Drug Store. The building remains home to Steamboat Springs' oldest operating soda fountain and stands as both an architectural landmark and a lasting symbol of downtown's commercial history.
“For more than a century, people have gathered here to shop, work and connect with neighbors. This was the logical next step to ensure it is preserved for generations to come”, said Erica Hewitt, Hewitt Design Studio, owner’s representative.
The building is also recognized as one of the community’s best examples of an early 20th-century, two-part commercial brick building. Its original storefront configuration and continued mixed-use design—with retail on the ground floor and offices and apartments above—remain defining architectural features more than a century later.
“We could not be happier this is now a Local Landmark. While it’s federal, state and county designations are wonderful, local designation not only follows suit but allows this important and iconic landmark to remain serving the community”, Victor Balestra, owner.
By joining the Steamboat Springs Register of Historic Places, the Maxwell-Squire Building becomes part of a growing collection of places that celebrate and preserve the city's rich heritage.
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Contact
Email Rebecca Bessey, Planning & Community Development Director, or call 970-871-8202
Email Caitlin Berube-Smith, Historic Preservation Planner, or call 970-871-8228
Email Michael Lane, Marketing & Communications Manager, or call 970-871-8220