This steam power plant was built in Salida, Colorado, by Salida Edison Electric Light Co. The oldest part of the current building dates to 1887 and Salida’s first public lights were illuminated on  December 7, 1887, just five years after Thomas Alva Edison installed the Pearl Street power plant in New York City. In 1892, a 1-MW coal-fired plant was added which also supplied the facilities of the D&RG Railroad. The power plant was extended between 1909 and 1914 and again between 1929 and 1945. In 1905, Salida Edison Electric merged with Salida Light Power and Utility Co (which had hydroelectric plants on the South Arkansas River). In 1916, Colorado Power Co acquired the Salida electric system and in turn was acquired by Public Service Company of Colorado in 1924. The Salida steam plant was operated only intermittently starting around 1931, reactivated in 1948, placed on standby in 1958, and retired in 1963, after which the structure was used for storage.

In 1987, the building was purchased for $35,000 by Salida Enterprise for Economic Development, which then deeded the property to the city. In 1989, the facility was converted into a theater venue known as the Steam Plant Theater and, in 1995, the outdoor Sculpture Garden opened on the grounds. The SteamPlant is now expanded into a complex including a conference center.

The historic SteamPlant Event Center offers a riverside, multi-use facility to accommodate corporate functions, community gatherings and private events of any kind. The versatility of the SteamPlant makes it perfect for events ranging from conventions or conferences to concerts, art shows, movie screenings, galas, weddings, family reunions and community gatherings. The ballroom has all of the ingredients to accommodate your needs – including a dance floor, mezzanine, kitchen and dressing rooms.

The riverside breakout rooms can be used separately for a cozy riverside meeting or wedding rehearsal dinner, or combined for larger groups. The riverside plaza can provide a wonderful outdoor extension for your event.