Real estate appraisal card. 134 D Street, lots 23-26, block 23, in Salida, Colorado.
This house was built between 1898 and 1902. Henry Wise (1862-1933), an engineer with D&RG lived here beginning in 1903-04 until at least 1906. Charles C. Burkhart lived here in 1911-12 and was employed as a fireman with D&RG.
In 1922, David Clarence and Eva W. Kern lived here. David was a railroad carman, and later engaged in an express business. Born in 1867, David died in September 1947 while doing yard work at his home. Eva died a few years later in October 1950. She was born in 1868 in Jasper County, Missouri. In Salida she was a member of the G.A.R. and the Methodist Church. Her daughter, Crystal Mae Wells, became the next owner of the property, along with her husband, George Washington Wells. George was an engineer with Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad. He was born in Southwest City, Missouri, in 1892. His parents were Ira and Josephine Wells. Mr. Wells moved to Salida in 1911 and lived here the rest of his life. Mr. Wells died in 1944 in Salida. Mr. and Mrs. Wells had no children surviving them.
The house had changed occupants by 1951, when Kenneth Lee and Maude Woods lived here. Maude was born in 1900. Kenneth was born in 1895 in Salida, and attended Valley View School and Salida High School. He was described as an outstanding athlete. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Woods, who were ranchers in the Salida area, and he helped his father on his ranch. Later, he worked as the assistant steward at the Salida Elks Lodge 808, of which he was a member. A veteran of World War I, he was also a member of the American Legion. Mr. and Mrs. Woods had no children. Kenneth Woods died in 1963 while residing at this address. In 1965, the city directory listed Mrs. Ethel M. Reese, a school teacher, at this address. Mrs. Reese was the widow of L.G. Reese.
History Colorado's Architectural Inventory Forms have more information and are available at the Salida Library.
