Molly Brown and the
Molly Brown House Museum

Molly Brown has been the subject of many books, movies and stage productions, and has become one of Denver’s most intriguing legends.  Margaret was a classic American rags-to-riches story.  She moved to Leadville, Colorado when she was 19 years old in search of adventure and wealth. 

While in Leadville, she caught the eye of mining superintendent James Joseph (J.J.) Brown and they were married shortly after.  The couple’s ship finally came in when the mine J.J. was in charge of struck the largest vein of gold ever found in Colorado.  The Browns were millionaires!

After the gold strike, Margaret and her family purchased the exquisite Victorian home at 1340 Pennsylvania Street in Denver’s plush Capitol Hill neighborhood.  The Victorian home was incredibly modern for the time.  It had electric lights, an indoor bathroom, hot and cold running water and a telephone. Margaret was an amazing and spirited woman and became active in the women’s suffrage movement and labor reform efforts. 

Unfortunately, after her death in 1932 her Victorian home was sold and used for many different functions.  By 1970 the house had fallen prey to deterioration, and was in danger of being demolished.  A group of concerned citizens incorporated themselves as Historic Denver, Inc. and fought to save and restore the Brown home.  Today, you can see the efforts of their work in the completely restored Victorian mansion. The Molly Brown House Museum, 1340 Pennsylvania Street, is a celebrated Denver landmark.