A list of important historic sites in Colorado.
Location: Central City and Blackhawk, Gilpin County
Relevant issues: Business and industry
Statement of significance: The Central City/Black Hawk National Historic Landmark is at the heart of one of the richest mining areas of the Rocky Mountain West. It was the discovery of gold here, in 1859, that triggered the great Pikes Peak gold rush. The district encompasses hundreds of buildings, including rare examples of mining camp-era wooden structures and the famed Opera House.
Location: Durango, La Plata County
Relevant issues: Business and industry
Statement of significance: Completed in 1882, this railroad was built to haul ores from isolated areas to smelters. It was also the main source of transportation and support for the mining community of Silverton. It is one of the few passenger railroads of its kind still in operation in the United States.
Location: Georgetown and Silver Plume, Clear Creek County
Relevant issues: Business and industry
Statement of significance: This area flourished originally because of gold and silver production. The two communities have retained much of their mid-nineteenth century boomtown atmosphere.
Location: Pleasant View, Montezuma County
Relevant issues: American Indian history
Statement of significance: This pueblo (c. 1100
Location: Sanford, Conejos County
Relevant issues: Western expansion
Statement of significance: Zebulon Pike (1779-1813) raised the American flag over Spanish soil at the stockade after leading the second official U.S. expedition into the Louisiana Territory in 1807.
Location: Silverton, San Juan County
Relevant issues: Business and industry
Statement of significance: This was one of the two principal mining towns in southwestern Colorado. It was important in the economic development of the Rocky Mountain area in the late nineteenth century.