Rio Grande Southern Railroad Derrick Car

Montrose County, located in southwestern Colorado, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Indigenous tribes such as the Ute, Apache, and Navajo peoples. The Ute tribe, in particular, has a strong connection to the region and their presence can be traced back as far as 1300 AD.

European settlement in the area began in the mid-1800s with the arrival of prospectors seeking gold and silver. Montrose County was officially established in 1883 after being carved out of neighboring Ouray County. The town of Montrose, named after Sir Walter Scott's novel "A Legend of Montrose," became the county seat. Agriculture and mining quickly became the driving forces behind the county's economy, with farmers and ranchers taking advantage of the fertile land and miners extracting valuable minerals.

In the early 20th century, the introduction of irrigation systems led to a significant growth in agriculture, particularly fruit orchards. Montrose County became known as the "Garden of Paradise" due to its thriving fruit industry. However, the Great Depression and drought in the 1930s brought challenges to the county, leading to some decline in the agricultural sector.

In recent decades, Montrose County has seen diversification in its economy, with a focus on tourism, outdoor recreation, and energy development. The county offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and hunting, attracting visitors from across the region. Additionally, the area has seen growth in the renewable energy sector, with wind and solar power projects being developed.

Overall, Montrose County's history showcases the resilience and adaptability of its residents as they have navigated through various economic changes. From its Indigenous roots to its development as an agricultural and mining hub, the county continues to evolve and thrive, embracing its natural beauty and resources to create a vibrant community.