St. Charles Bridge
a.k.a. state survey no.:PU14
Cty. Rd. 65, Pueblo, CO Local significance of the structure:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
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.
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.
European exploration of the area began in the 16th century when Spanish explorers arrived in search of gold and other riches. Spanish colonization followed, and Pueblo County became part of New Spain. The region played a significant role in the development of trade routes, connecting Mexico with the northern territories.
In the mid-19th century, during the peak of the Colorado Gold Rush, Pueblo County experienced a surge in population as miners and prospectors flocked to the area. The city of Pueblo, which would later become the county seat, was officially established in 1870 and quickly grew into a bustling industrial hub.
The county's economy boomed with the arrival of diverse industries such as steel manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation. The Colorado Fuel and Iron Company (CF&I), one of the largest steel mills in the country, was established in Pueblo in the late 19th century, becoming a major contributor to the county's growth and prosperity.
Today, Pueblo County is a vibrant community that celebrates its cultural heritage and natural beauty. It is home to various attractions, including the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk, the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum, and the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center. The county continues to thrive and adapt, balancing its rich past with a vision for the future.
Pueblo County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Pueblo County, Colorado.
- 1842: The Bent's Fort trading post is established near present-day Pueblo, attracting fur trappers and traders.
- 1846: The Mexican-American War leads to the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which establishes the southern border of Colorado along the Arkansas River.
- 1859: The Colorado Gold Rush brings an influx of settlers to the region, including Pueblo County.
- 1861: Pueblo County is created as one of the original 17 counties of the Colorado Territory.
- 1870: The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad reaches Pueblo, boosting the local economy and population growth.
- 1886: The Colorado Fuel and Iron Company (CF&I) is established in Pueblo, becoming a major employer and influencing the county's development.
- 1921: The Pueblo Steel Mill is constructed by CF&I, solidifying Pueblo as an industrial center.
- 1930s: The Great Depression hits Pueblo County hard, leading to economic hardships for many residents.
- 1942: Pueblo Army Air Base is established, becoming one of the largest training sites for World War II pilots.
- 1980s: The decline of the steel industry negatively impacts Pueblo County's economy.
- 1993: The Pueblo Reservoir is completed, providing recreational opportunities and supporting water supply for the region.
- 2001: Pueblo County becomes the first county in Colorado to impose a tax on retail marijuana sales.