05/27/2026
The Prairie Heritage Arts Association DBA Prairie Cultural Revitalization, is honored and deeply grateful to announce the purchase and future restoration of the historic Burlington State Armory.
This milestone has been made possible through the extraordinary generosity and vision of three local families whose dedication to community, history, and preservation reflects the very spirit of Burlington: Greg and Tara Penny, Barry and Debbie Hinkhouse, and Kevin and Jeana Penny.
For generations, the Armory has held a special place in the hearts of these local families. In 1949, Dorothy Nider spent her summer vacation in Burlington. It was a Saturday night at the Armory where Dorothy first met Gene Penny and Bill and Billie Hinkhouse. This began a friendship and family connection that has continued for over 75 years. Their story represents just one of countless memories created within the building’s walls — memories of military service, community celebrations, dances, athletic competitions, and lifelong friendships.
Constructed in 1926, the Burlington State Armory served as a National Guard facility supporting military readiness across the Eastern Plains of Colorado. The building also became an important social and cultural center for the Burlington community. Over the decades, the Armory hosted dances, boxing matches, public gatherings, educational events, and community celebrations that brought generations of residents together.
The Floyd Powell family was one of the first families associated with the Armory and played an important role in overseeing military training operations connected to the facility. George Powell and Lois Powell Simpson both grew up within the Armory environment and later pursued military careers, continuing a proud tradition of service shared by many local families connected to the building.
Prairie Heritage Arts Association plans to restore the Armory as a vibrant community venue that honors its historic legacy while creating new opportunities for future generations. Proposed uses for the facility include wedding receptions, family gatherings, educational programs, exercise and wellness classes, art shows, concerts, theatrical productions, community markets, youth activities, and cultural events.
“This project is about more than restoring a building,” one Board member stated. “It is about preserving the Armory as a shared community treasure — a place where local history, arts, education, and community events can come together for generations to enjoy.”
The organization recognizes the tremendous scope of this restoration effort and welcomes both financial contributions and volunteer support from community members throughout the renovation process and beyond.
Additional information about the project, donation opportunities, and future events can be found at PCR Burlington.com, or on the Prairie Cultural Revitalization page.
Donations may be mailed to:
Prairie Heritage Arts Association
PO Box 754
Burlington, CO 80807
Questions regarding the project may be directed to Melissa Kleweno, President, at [email protected] or by text message at (719) 342-1531.
Current Board Members of the Prairie Heritage Arts Association include Jeremiah Bogenhagen, Teresa Hevner, Luke Bloyd, Adam Wycoff, and Melissa Kleweno.
Monthly meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at Health Essentials beginning at 6:00 p.m. Community members and prospective volunteers are always welcome.
