Barney Ford Museum
About the Barney Ford Museum
Enslaved for the first 26 years of his life, Barney Ford fought through racism, fires and financial hardship to become one of Colorado’s leading businessmen and civil rights pioneers. After advocating for his own freedom, Ford started businesses in places as far away as Nicaragua and as close as the lawn at the Barney Ford Museum. At age 60, Ford commissioned his stately Breckenridge home in the heart of town. The restored museum honors the remarkable life and legacy of Barney Ford.
We also invite you to take a virtual tour of the Barney Ford Museum!
Looking for something to do before the next tour starts at the Barney Ford Museum? Check out these nearby historical adventures.
Barney Ford
Recent Accolades
In 2018, Barney Ford was inducted into the Colorado Tourism Hall of Fame. For more information, check out the video about this special honor.
In 2021, Rocky Mountain PBS premiered Colorado Experience: Mr. Barney Ford, an hour-long documentary about Ford’s life and legacy. Learn more about the artist, Leilani Abeyta, and the artistic process she used to create the paintings in the documentary. In addition, several of her pieces are on display at the museum.
In 2022, Governor Jarod Polis, on behalf of the State of Colorado, signed a proclamation celebrating Barney Ford’s legacy and pioneering efforts for civil rights during his lifetime. Colorado also kicked off Black History Month with Barney Ford Day on February 1st.
Schedule & Cost
Parking Info
There are a few designated parking spaces at the Barney Ford Museum. Otherwise, there is street and town lot parking; please visit the Breck Park website for information on current parking locations and fees.
Lost Highways podcast
Executive Director Larissa O’Neil talks about Barney Ford with History Colorado in the newest Lost Highways podcast.
The Barney Ford Museum shares the remarkable story of Barney Ford’s life. Experience the Barney Ford Museum through our guided tours that allow you to truly learn about Ford, his hardships, and accomplishments. Guests at the museum will enjoy a 30-minute guided tour at 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, and 2 pm. You will be walking and standing for the duration of the tour. You will then have the opportunity to explore the museum on your own. Finally, Click here for more FAQs.
History lovers and those interested in architecture and/or civil rights.
“We were looking for something to do for about 40 minutes prior to picking up our child from ski school. So glad we took 30 minutes to visit this museum/house. Barney Ford was an interesting man who would not give up on his dreams. A great example of a person who overcame obstacles and became successful. A truly inspiring story. Enjoyed touring the first floor of his home and seeing all of the period antiques. Definitely worth a visit.”
Ford was known as the “King of Restaurants” in Denver, just five years after the city was founded.
