History of Tennyson

Since its humble beginnings in 1863, Berkeley's Tennyson Street has continued to grow and to evolve - somehow mastering the perfect balance of casual cool through its shopping, services, attractions, and amenities for Denver visitors and residents alike.

Originally annexed as the Town of North Denver, the Berkeley neighborhood has set the stage for some of Denver's most well known names. Historic giants like Elitch's (Zoological) Gardens, whose original theatre is still located at 38th and Tennyson, helped to create the vibrant cultural landscape unique to the neighborhood and its history. Mary Elitch, the owner of Elitch's Gardens and namesake theatre, had a particular interest in developing the arts and cultural scene in the northwest Denver neighborhood. The popularity of her theatre (the first to screen movies in Denver), zoological and botanical gardens resulted in the rise of the Tennyson street car named the "Berkeley Motor", a bustling track of transportation that serviced and helped grow the population of homeowners and visitors in the neighborhood.

Fast forward to modern day, many things in the Berkeley neighborhood and Tennyson Street have changed. The cable car tracks have long been ripped up and once quiet neighborhoods have begun to swell. What has remained is the neighborhood's dedication to and celebration of arts and culture. Tennyson Street actively participates in the nationwide First Fridays art walk every month, in addition to year-round festivals and activities. To sum it all up: Tennyson Street is a historically rich neighborhood that, despite many changes, continues to hold on to its unique character and bohemian charm.