Weathered steering wheel of the homestead's original tractor, paint worn to bare steel

The

1881

Experience

The original homestead barn and outbuildings under fresh snow on the eastern Colorado plains

Explore Windler’s History

Rooted in the Windler family’s legacy of dryland farming on this land, The 1881 Experience brings the history of the Windler Homestead to life. Through stories, artifacts, and discoveries, visitors will explore the agricultural roots, western spirit, and enduring values that connect the past to our community’s vibrant present.

The homestead's grain silos against a dusk sky
The homestead's grain silos against a dusk sky

Every weathered board, rusted hinge, and worn path tells the story of the Windler family, whose dryland farm became the foundation for the community you see today.

Weathered hoses and equipment coiled in the homestead workshop
old weathered chair in barn
The Windlers
tractor grille
barn stalls
Morning light falling through the windows of the restored barn

Original artifacts, photographs, and family stories transform the historic barn into an immersive journey through nearly 150 years of Colorado history.

Uncover the story that started it all

Sign up for updates and we’ll let you know when The 1881 Experience opens, along with exclusive previews and behind-the-scenes progress.

Archival photograph of the original farmhouse on open prairie
Archival photograph of the family tractor at rest in the field
The farmhouse kitchen, preserved with its original furniture and kitchenware
A wagon wheel and hand tools from the working farm
A weathered paint can from the homestead, label worn with age

Every object has a story. Soon you’ll be able to scan each artifact’s QR code to uncover the people, tools, and traditions that shaped life on the Windler Homestead.

Aerial rendering of 1881 Park: lawns, paths, gardens, and the restored barn among the trees

The 1881 Experience in 1881 Park

History isn’t something that’s tucked away in the past here. It’s something you help create every day. 1881 Park honors the Windler family homestead where generations once lived, farmed, and gathered by reimagining the original land into a vibrant place for connection, recreation, and community.

23900 E. 44th Drive, Aurora, Colorado 80019
See It Now