National Register Listing

Elitch Gardens Carousel

a.k.a. Kit Carson County Carousel;Carousel No.6;Philadelphia Tobogg

Kit Carson County Fairgrounds, Burlington, CO
Local significance of the object:
Art; Entertainment/recreation; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

art entertainment recreation architecture
The town of Telluride, located in the San Juan Mountains, was once a booming mining town that produced millions of dollars' worth of gold and silver. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
Colorado random facts
Kit Carson County is located in northeastern Colorado and has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Kiowa. These tribes relied on the region's abundant wildlife and fertile land for their survival.

In the 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the promise of fertile soil and the opportunity for a new beginning. The county was officially established on February 11, 1889, and was named after the famous frontiersman Kit Carson. The town of Burlington became the county seat, and it quickly grew into a thriving community.

The discovery of gold and silver in the nearby mountains brought a wave of miners to the region in the late 1800s. This influx of people gave a boost to the local economy and led to the establishment of several mining towns, such as Stratton and Vona. Agriculture also played a significant role in the county's development, with farmers producing crops like wheat, corn, and sugar beets.

Over the years, Kit Carson County has faced its share of challenges, including droughts, economic downturns, and natural disasters. However, the county has always shown resilience and a commitment to progress. Today, Kit Carson County continues to be an important agricultural hub, with farming and ranching being the main economic activities. The county also offers a range of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, and camping, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Kit Carson County, Colorado.

  • 1858: Gold was discovered in the area, attracting settlers and prospectors.
  • 1869: Kit Carson County was established on April 11.
  • 1870s: The county experienced significant growth with the establishment of towns such as Burlington and Bethune.
  • 1887: The Kit Carson County courthouse was built, becoming a local landmark.
  • 1890s: Agriculture became the dominant industry, with farming and ranching contributing to the county's economy.
  • 1901: The Burlington Railroad reached Kit Carson County, further stimulating economic growth.
  • 1953: Bonny Dam was completed, creating Bonny Reservoir and providing irrigation water for local agriculture.
  • 1990: Kit Carson County's population reached its peak at over 9,000 residents.
  • 2002: The last active railroad line in the county, the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, was abandoned.