Young and old, Denver area residents helped celebrate the city's birthday by taking a tour through the past in a new exhibit, "Imagine a Great City: Denver at 150."

The display recognizes the people, events, and communities that influenced the pioneer city from its birth in 1858 right through the start of the 21st century.

"We divided this up into different themes, including themes about Denver neighborhoods, cultural conflicts, sports and leisure," said Bill Convery, state historian.

From Mayor Robert Speer to John Elway and General Larimer to barrel man, past and present covered every corner of the exhibit.

Nettie Moore, 83, didn't need the pictures on the wall to remember growing up in west Denver in the 1920s, but each historic photo took her back instantly.

"I can remember Colfax when it was just two lanes and parking. And mom and pop shops. People had their little shops, like their meat shops, and they lived in behind, and I miss that," said Moore.

Mayor John Hickenlooper and several city leaders helped cut the ribbon on the new exhibit.

Prior to the unveiling, the mayor hosted a private ceremony, honoring 150 of Denver's "unsung heroes."

The recipients were presented special plaques and gifts for representing different parts of the city through their work and diversity.

In a room dedicated to the history of integration in Denver's schools, Dr. Jennie Rucker, a former teacher, vividly recalls graduating from Denver West High School 68 years ago without ever seeing an African-American teacher.

"We never had segregated schools, except for economics," said Rucker.

In another corner, resident Cullen Tulley looked back on an old electric car, complete with tires from Gates Rubber, where he worked for several decades.

He remembers when a drive to the mountains was a trip.

"When we'd go over, we'd plan on eating lunch halfway up so the car would cool off," he explained.

Choosing from 150 years of history was not easy but was greatly appreciated.

In an effort to include residents in the celebrations, Denver offered free admission to several museums.

The City of Denver has set up a Web site that features, among other things, the history of the city. Click here to check it out.