Berthoud Residents Invited to Share Town Stories for Historical Record

Community engagement manager collects memories to preserve local history before it's lost forever.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:23pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of people gathered around a table, their faces and details obscured in a hazy, dreamlike wash of warm colors and soft light, conveying a sense of nostalgia and the importance of preserving local history through personal recollections.The vibrant community of Berthoud comes together to preserve its rich history through personal stories and shared memories.Berthoud Today

The town of Berthoud, Colorado is launching a new initiative to collect personal stories and memories from residents as part of a rebranding effort. Stephanie Horvath, the community engagement manager, is spearheading the project called "The Berthoud Book of Stories" in partnership with the Berthoud Historical Society. Residents are encouraged to submit written stories or record oral histories that capture what life is like in Berthoud, whether it's memories from growing up, local events, or the history of the town. The collected stories will be preserved in the town's historical archives to help future generations understand Berthoud's past.

Why it matters

As small towns across America continue to evolve, preserving local history and culture becomes increasingly important. Berthoud's story collection project aims to document the community's unique identity and experiences before they are lost to time. By inviting all residents to contribute, the town can create a comprehensive historical record that reflects the diverse perspectives and memories of its people.

The details

Stephanie Horvath, Berthoud's community engagement manager, was tasked by the town's rebranding firm to collect "a few little stories" from residents. Horvath saw an opportunity to expand the project into a much larger initiative called "The Berthoud Book of Stories." She is working with Andrew Wayland, the director of the Berthoud Historical Society, to develop the format and determine what types of stories to collect. The goal is to gather as many personal accounts as possible, whether they are memories of growing up, recollections of local events, or historical anecdotes about the town. Residents can submit written stories online, by email, or in person at various community locations. The Berthoud Library is also hosting a series of storytelling sessions where people can record their oral histories. Once compiled, the town will donate the stories to the Berthoud Historical Society to be preserved and used for future research and education.

  • The story collection project will run through the end of May 2026.
  • Storytelling recording sessions are scheduled for April 9, May 4, and May 27, 2026.

The players

Stephanie Horvath

The community engagement manager for the Town of Berthoud, leading the "Berthoud Book of Stories" project.

Andrew Wayland

The director of the Berthoud Historical Society, providing guidance and support for the story collection initiative.

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What they’re saying

“I think that everyone's story is important and helps to paint the bigger picture of what Berthoud is. Whether it is a story about a high school game you played in, memories from growing up going to Berthoud Days, or even what it was like growing up here, all stories are significant.”

— Andrew Wayland, Museum Director, Berthoud Historical Society

“Once the stories have been compiled, the Town of Berthoud will donate them to the museum, and the Historical Society will be able to use them to help people learn about the Town of Berthoud and what makes it a great place to live and work.”

— Andrew Wayland, Museum Director, Berthoud Historical Society

What’s next

The story collection project will continue through the end of May 2026, with additional storytelling recording sessions scheduled for April 9, May 4, and May 27. After the stories are compiled, the Town of Berthoud will donate them to the Berthoud Historical Society to be preserved and used for future research and education.

The takeaway

By inviting all Berthoud residents to share their personal stories and memories, the town is taking an important step in preserving its unique local history and culture. This community-driven initiative will create a rich historical record that can be passed down to future generations, ensuring the stories of Berthoud are not forgotten.