Noteworthy Mention of the Montclair Neighborhood of Denver

The Montclair/Mayfair neighborhood is considered one of Denver’s original suburbs, established in 1887. The present-day definition of “suburb” no longer describes this very urban and upscale neighborhood located just east of downtown Denver.  It is nestled within 6th Ave., Quebec St., Colorado Blvd. and Colfax Ave. You’ll find large Victorian and Queen Anne homes, bungalows, Tudors and ranches on oversized lots. Montclair/Mayfair has the distinction of attaining the title of one of Denver’s first historic districts.

History of the Montclair

The venerable Baron Walter von Richthofen was the mastermind of the Montclair/Mayfair neighborhood. Richthofen, the uncle of WWI flying ace Manfred von Richthofen and founder of the Denver Chamber of Commerce, envisioned a “utopian community” on what was once open space and farmland. His residence, the Richthofen Castle, 7020 E. 12th Ave., became the heart of this new development. However, his dream fell short when an economic downturn slowed building, and later in 1903, it became incorporated into the city of Denver.

The Architecture in the Montclair

To the majority of its residents, Montclair/Mayfair is still the dream location. There is a fantastic array of beautiful homes on large lots in this enclave. Noted Denver architect and architectural critic Tom Morris stated, “Montclair buildings are a catalog of architectural styles from 1885 to the present. If a person is interested in what the American suburban dream might look like …., Montclair is its living model.”

Despite widespread urban decay and flight from cities in the 1960s, Montclair/Mayfair neighborhood has withstood the test of time with the help of its designation as a historic district in 1973. This label was critical in maintaining the dignity of the community and revitalizing structures that had deteriorated in the 1960s.

The neighborhood is represented by Mayfair Neighborhood Inc., a very active association that makes a variety of decisions on behalf of its citizens. A quarterly newsletter keeps residents informed of proposals and developments, ranging from concerts in the park to backyard chickens.

Restaurants in the Neighborhood

Residents of Montclair/Mayfair have great access to highly rated ethnic restaurants along and near Colfax Ave. Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant, 1422 Poplar St., and Queen of Sheba, 7225 E. Colfax Ave., are two neighborhood favorites.