National Register Listing

Denver and Rio Grande Railroad Locomotive No.169

a.k.a. 5AL312.1

Along Chamber Dr. within Cole Park, Alamosa, CO
Local significance of the structure:
Transportation; Engineering

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2001.

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.

transportation engineering railroads
The town of Leadville, Colorado, located at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, was once the second-largest city in Colorado and home to the richest silver mine in the world. It also has the distinction of having the highest airport in North America, at an elevation of 9,927 feet.
Colorado random facts
Alamosa County, Colorado, was first inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ute and Jicarilla Apache. These tribes were semi-nomadic and relied on hunting and gathering for sustenance. Spanish explorers arrived in the region in the 16th century, with Juan de Oñate being one of the first known Europeans to visit the area. The Spanish established settlements and missions, but their presence was disrupted by conflicts with Native American tribes and eventually faded away.

In the mid-19th century, the Colorado Gold Rush brought European-American settlers into the area. Ranching and mining industries started to develop, transforming Alamosa County into an agricultural and commercial center. The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad established a route through the county in 1878, further boosting its growth and connecting it to larger markets.

Alamosa County experienced a significant population increase during the early 20th century due to agricultural expansion, primarily in potato farming and cattle ranching. The town of Alamosa was incorporated in 1878 and became the county seat. Water management projects, such as the establishment of reservoirs and irrigation canals, played a crucial role in supporting the region's agricultural growth.

The county also faced various challenges throughout its history. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s severely impacted the local economy, causing many residents to migrate in search of better opportunities. However, the community worked hard to recover, with the construction of the Alamosa National Fish Hatchery bringing much-needed jobs during the Great Depression. Today, Alamosa County continues to be a prominent agricultural center, while also attracting tourists who come to explore nearby natural attractions such as the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Alamosa County, Colorado.

  • 1873 - Alamosa County was established on March 8th.
  • 1878 - The first permanent settlement, known as "Old Fort," was established.
  • 1881 - The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad reached Alamosa, fueling economic growth.
  • 1886 - The town of Alamosa was incorporated on April 22nd.
  • 1905 - The Alamosa National Bank, the first bank in the county, was established.
  • 1912 - The State Normal School, now Adams State University, was founded.
  • 1922 - The Carnegie Public Library opened its doors to the public.
  • 1951 - The Great Sand Dunes National Monument was established.
  • 2003 - The Alamosa County Museum opened, showcasing the county's history.