BackA Brief History of the Eastern Star-Masonic Retirement Community
Article submitted by Eastern Star Masonic Retirement Community. They can be reached at 303-753-2179 or visit their website – www.esmrc.com
In September of 1925 the Grand Chapter of Colorado, Order of Eastern Star voted to establish and maintain a Home for the aged and indigent members of the Chapters. The land was donated by Robert Russell and in 1931, at a cost of $55,000, the Home opened. It consisted of 17 single rooms, 5 double rooms, a large living room, dining room and kitchen plus the Matron’s living quarters.
The home managed livestock and a huge garden to help sustain the community.
In the 50’s, the home employed a couple who were the caretakers of the home. Together they raised two children here along with a full house of residents. In 1952 there were so many requests for additional rooms, the board decided to add the south wing in 1955 for $75,000. Demand was still high for additional rooms so in June of 1959 the north wing was dedicated at a cost of $68,000. During the coming years smaller projects were accomplished as replacing rugs, drapes, furniture and landscaping the grounds. In addition, other upgrades were made to comply with fire codes and an elevator was installed.
Again, the wait list to get into the Home was getting very long, so in June of 1977, another addition was dedicated giving the Home another ten large private rooms, a spacious hall, large lounge and a chapel.
Improvements to the Home were an ongoing project bringing the building up to current fire code standards and adding a medication room, an exam room, and renovations to the upper level.
As growth continued, the board decided to add 58 independent patio homes between 1989 and 1991. Initially these were sold to residents, however, now the homes are strictly leased. These beautiful homes have been immaculately maintained and are perfect for seniors who no longer want to deal with home maintenance.
As a mission driven non-profit organization the Eastern Star Masonic Retirement Community strives to keep our pricing affordable. In fact, in assisted living we accept Medicaid for those individuals who have run out of money. As a result of our affordable pricing, we stay full in both assisted living and in the independent patio homes. The community has future plans to expand and will implement those when sufficient funds become available.