History Since 1886!

We are often asked about the history of La Renaissance.

Records indicate that the oldest portion of this beautiful structure was built in 1886 by the founders of the Mesa Presbyterian Church. The Main Dining Room (Banner Room) now occupies this area. The Manse (probably the current Balcony, Parsonage, and Garden Room)

La Renaissance is quite old by Pueblo standards—Rosemount, the Union Depot and the Orman-Adams House were built several years later. In 1924, a new sanctuary was completed and now serves as our Banquet room.

In 1956, an educational wing was added. Fortunately, the lovely twenty-five foot high stained glass window was retained and still enhances the Banquet Room. The Serendipity and Nostalgia Rooms, second floor offices and basement storage and laundry facilities occupy this wing.

A newspaper article from the 1950's describes the church: “With its spacious lawn, its many shrubs and flowers, and the ivy covered stuccoed walls and tower, it has become one of the beauty spots on the South side.”

In 1966, in response to changing neighborhood demographics, the Mesa Presbyterian Church and the University Presbyterian Church (located then at Broadway and Adams) merged to form the Westminster United Presbyterian Church in Sunset Park. The La Renaissance building was subsequently owned by a series of small congregations of various denominations.

In 1974, Jim and Bob Fredregill purchased the property to provide office space for their Red Barn Restaurants and much needed kitchen space for their growing catering business.

The building was in disrepair—one could actually see the sky through the Banner Room ceiling—and the grounds were a mass of weeds and debris.

Restoration became a family endeavor. Aided by many talented craftsmen, the Fredregills—Jim and Jeannette, Bob and Tryna—shared in the seemingly endless sanding, plastering, wallpapering, painting, more painting, still more painting, and landscaping of the building and grounds.

The facility was used for private parties until the summer of 1978, when La Renaissance opened as a full service restaurant. It has been in continuous operation and ownership since. A permanent staff keeps the business running smoothly.

The process of restoration and renovation is never ending. We are continually upgrading, replacing and improving. Many of you have watched La Renaissance evolve over the years, and we so appreciate your encouragement, support and patronage!

Bit by bit, we have added to our knowledge of the building's history. Should you have information, clippings or photos to share with us, we would be most grateful.