NIWOT, Colo. — It may be one of the smallest museums you've seen, but there is nothing small about the significance of Niwot's old fire house.
That's in big part because of Kathy Koehler.
"She’s really quite the heart of Niwot," said Niwot Historical Society board member, Leonard Sitongia
Kathy is the keeper of Niwot's history — a nearly full-time job that pays her in relationships.
"They come and they stay and they find something. And in my opinion, it needs to be big enough so they can read it or touch it and then they’re out the door," Kathy aid.
For the past 15 years, Kathy has volunteered her time, most recently serving as Niwot Historical Society's president.
She gives tours, lectures and keeps the little fire museum ready for visitors.
"It’s fun what you can discover," Kathy said.
"She’s just very warm and very collaborative. She will let you do anything you want and she’s very open to suggestions and welcomes everyone to work with her in getting all these things done," Sitongia said.
Kathy moved to the town of just 4,000 in 1972. She came for its charm, but has stayed for the warmth of the community.
"Volunteers and people, and that’s the sweet spot of Niwot," Kathy said. "You walk down the street and you can say hi to somebody and they say hi back."
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