The early 20th century was a period of growing discrimination for Hispanos across Colorado. In the face of such adversity, many of the Hispano families and workers of the San Luis Valley banded together and created the Sociedad Protección Mutua de Trabajadores Unidos (SPMDTU), one of the oldest mutual benefits societies in the United States.

The Concilio Superior building was constructed in 1925 in Antonito to serve as a regional headquarters for the SPMDTU. It was at the centerpoint of important historical moments as Hispanos and Chicanos of Colorado, New Mexico, and neighboring states fought for rights as basic and universal as water access, land ownership, labor unionization, and public school attendance.

In this virtual tour of the Concilio Superior building, you will explore the rich history of the communities it has served for over 120 years, discover the ongoing work of SPMDTU, and learn of the efforts that have been undertaken to preserve this historic site.

Take the Digital Tour →