The Coulter was built in 1929, a year when Baca County had endless enthusiasm about the future. Sadly, the Dust Bowl era sent the county - and the hotel - into a tailspin, and the hotel deteriorated over the years.

 

In the 1990's, the building was sold, renovated and returned to service for some time before being closed again when the previous owners retired. A couple purchased the building in late 2017 as a way to celebrate and share the history of Southeast Colorado while offering astro-photography tours.  Being located in a remote part of Colorado, the night skies shine brilliantly from being devoid of the light pollution so many of us are used to.

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In March of 2020, the couple sold the building to The Wild Animal Refuge - which is a non-profit wildlife refuge located 16 miles northeast of Pritchett.  The Refuge was looking for a hotel or rooming house to utilize for short-term and/or overnight stays for its staff and special guests.

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However, the Refuge also wanted to continue the tradition of operating the historic building as a Hotel or Bed & Breakfast, just like Jim and Laura had.  As such, the Refuge has set up the historic Hotel to continue on in the same fashion as it has for the past few years - welcoming guests that are looking for a unique experience in Colorado's southeast, or just needing a comfortable place to spend the night.

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The Wild Animal Refuge also owns another two-story Hotel in Pritchett called the Pritchett Hotel - which is just two blocks away from the Coulter Hotel.  Both Hotels were built in the same year and have more or less the same layout and amenities.

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If you are looking for more capacity, or would just like to see what The Pritchett Hotel has to offer - you are welcome to visit the website at www.PritchettHotel.com

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