Adobe Stables at the Arkansas Valley Fairgrounds

The Adobe Stables at the Arkansas Valley Fairgrounds consist of four long, rectangular stable blocks that face each other across a large open space used for saddling and other race preparations. The stable blocks are approximately 12' deep; each stall is roughly 10' wide. The total combined length of the four stable blocks is approximately 840', containing 80 stalls. Slightly pitched shed roofs slope towards the rear and cover the single-story blocks. The stables are constructed of adobe blocks resting on a concrete foundation, with walls approximately 8' tall. WPA workers left the adobe blocks exposed instead of covering them with plaster, which is unusual and allows the construction method to be examined closely.

The Adobe Stables are significant for their association with New Deal construction programs (Criterion A, Social History), their role in the historic Arkansas Valley Fair — the oldest continuous fair in Colorado, established in 1892 — and their distinctive exposed-adobe construction (Criterion C). The WPA manufactured roughly 60,000 adobe bricks to construct the horse and stock stalls. Construction began in March 1938 and ended November 25, 1938.

Many of the stalls have been repaired, and a successful Kentucky Derby-themed fundraiser was held in 2017. Further fundraising is required for matching funds to assist the owners.