A Sneak Peak At The History Of The Most Historic Towns Colorado

By Walter Graham


It is no secret that it took a while before Colorado was admitted to the Union. It is often regarded as a new state in American culture owing to the fact that it was the 38th state to join the union in 1876. Nevertheless, it is a state rich in history. Here are some of the most historic towns Colorado.

If archived records of American history are to be believed, San Luis holds the mark for being the oldest town in the entire state. Its first settlers were a group of Tao people, with the year being 1851. At the time, the settlement fell under the jurisdiction of the state of New Mexico. Nevertheless, territorial changes were made in 1861, with its mandate being placed under the current territorial jurisdiction.

In 1858, Boulder, another town, was established. During the years that followed, the residents participated in constructing schools and other buildings within the urban development. A vital railroad was also built through the area around the same time.

Today, Leadville is largely known to be a popular mountain destination amongst Coloradoans. Its first inhabitants were miners looking to exploit supposed gold reserves. It was originally christened Oro City, the local word for gold at the time. The miners first started streaming in at the turn of the gold rush in 1859.

Despite their best efforts, the ore was never found, leading to a mass exodus from the town. The settlers who chose to remain would soon discover a different mineral. In the coming years, they uncovered vast deposits of silver embedded in the locally available cerussite, a mineral based on lead. This explains where the area got its name.

Another old settlement around is Idaho Springs. The first main discovery of gold at the peak of the gold rush happened in the area. The Argo Mill, which was the biggest and most famous back then, still stands as it once did today. It was primarily used to mine gold ore and to process it.

The town of Como also holds a great deal of significance in American history. It was christened as such owing to the origins of its original settlers who were coal miners. The settlers arrived from Como in Italy in 1879. During the height of its mining years, it housed a large depot for the Pacific, South Park and Denver railroad. The original roadhouse still stands in its place just as it did in the past.

The town of Black Hawk also has its fair share of history. Just like several other Coloradoan settlements, it arose from the gold rush. Back then, the ore output in its mines was stupendous. It was first settled in 1859, with many of its first settlers working in the mines for a living. After the gold deposits got depleted, many miners left for other areas.

Today, the area is primarily known as a gambling metropolis. Many established casinos in the town started in the year 1991 and have stood strong ever since. Not far from Black Hawk is Central City, which is also known to be a gambling hub. If you have time, visit these locations for that retro feel that will jolt you right into the throes of the past.




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