National Historic District Old Colorado City

In 1859 the small settlement of El Dorado, at the eastern entrance to the pass through the mountains to the west, was renamed Colorado City by the founders Melancthon Beach, Rufus Cable, Anthony Bott and George Bute.  Colorado City became the first permanent town in the Pikes Peak region.

Early settlers included farmers, ranchers, freighters and outfitters for the people who were rushing to the western mine fields.  By 1886 the Colorado Midland Railroad was one of the city’s largest employers, with its headquarter offices, terminals and repair yards in Colorado City. 

When gold was discovered in 1891 at Cripple Creek, prosperity came to the city from the four gold ore reduction mills operating in Colorado City.  Gold miners would flock to Colorado City to buy supplies.  Because Colorado Springs was founded as a “dry” town, the sale of alcohol became a lucrative business in Colorado City, and the town soon became infamous for its many saloons and brothels.  At the height of the "Pikes Peak or Bust" boom of the 1890s, Colorado City boasted more than 20 saloons, gaming parlors and brothels.

The hardworking residents built schools, the Carnegie public library and churches, all in the desire to make their town more respectable.  With the prohibition of liquor in 1914, the “wild west days” were destined to fade for Colorado City and in 1917, after a second vote, it was annexed by Colorado Springs. 

Today, Old Colorado City is a thriving arts district at the western border of Colorado Springs.  It hosts dozens of galleries displaying works by over 100 local artists.  Along with its shops, boutiques and restaurants, Old Colorado City now invites visitors around the world to stroll along Colorado Avenue and discover what’s new in Old Colorado City.