The plant was originally constructed by F.O. Stanley in 1909 to provide power for the Stanley Hotel. Construction of the plant allowed the hotel to claim to be one of the first in the country to heat, cook and light exclusively with electricity. It also provided the first electrical energy to the youthful town of Estes Park. The plant was taken out of service in 1982 as a result of the devastating Lawn Lake flood. It has been boarded-up since that time.

Planning work for the restoration project was done in part with a prior grant from the State Historic Fund. The Light and Power Department also contributed funds.

The State Historic Funds are generated from state taxes on limited stakes gambling. The funds are intended " … to foster historic preservation through tangible and highly visible projects to direct and demonstrate Public benefit."

Mike Mangelsen, Assistant to the Utilities Director, was the project coordinator and chair of the Citizens Advisory Committee. Committee members included Mayor Robert Dekker, Frank Hix, Tom Watts, Frank Parks, Gene Oja and Estes Park Area Historical Museum Director Betty Kilsdonk.

The facility now serves as an interpretive center offering educational tours under the guidance of the Estes Park Area Historical Museum. Mangelsen stressed that the plant, which retains its original equipment, will no longer generate electricity. He is very pleased and excited about this opportunity to educate many people about hydroelectricity and its impact upon Estes Park's development.

Questions about the grant and the restoration project may be directed to Mangelsen at 577-3583.