National Register Listing

Trujillo Homestead

a.k.a. 5AL706

Unnamed two-track road, 9.3 mi. NE of MOsca, MOsca, CO
The Trujillo Homestead is significant for its association with Hispanic settlement in the San Luis Valley in the latter half of the nineteenth century, having been established by a first-generation Hispanic-American resident, Pedro Trujillo, in 1879. The homestead is representative of small-scale pioneer cattle enterprises which typified the first ranches established in the area. The homestead is also associated with the pattern of violence and intimidation experienced by early Hispanic ranchers as large Anglo-American cattle operations expanded and consolidated their holdings. The property's history reflects the clash of cultures that ensued as Hispanic sheep raisers and Anglo-American cattlemen vied for control of the land and also the ways in which the first generation of Hispanic Americans adapted elements of the new culture into their traditional lifestyle.

The house is also important for its architecture, as a two-story example of log homestead house construction in the San Luis Valley. The two-story ranch house represents a rare resource type in the San Luis Valley and in the state as a whole. The fact that a Hispanic-American settler on an isolated ranch erected the two-story log house instead of building a traditional adobe dwelling typical of the first era of construction in the vicinity adds to the building's significance.

The ranch is also notable for its potential to yield information important in the area of Hispanic ethnic heritage. The archaeological component of the site provides a unique opportunity to study cultural change and adaptation by examining the possible historic use of Native American technology by a Hispanic ethnic group in an agricultural setting. The presence of several pieces of ground stone (manos and metates) in discrete concentrations on the site with other historic artifacts may provide information on Native American trade (or visitation/work) with early Hispanic occupants; the manufacture of tools (such as ground stone and flaked glass tools) by early Hispanics using prehistoric technology; and the use by early Hispanic occupants of Native American trade items or reuse of prehistoric artifacts for specific tasks in addition to utilizing contemporary technologies for such tasks. The period of significance extends from 1879 (the date of settlement) to 1902 (the date of Trujillo's departure).
Local significance of the district:
Agriculture; Architecture; Hispanic

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

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.

agriculture architecture ethnic heritage hispanic
Audiobooks about the history of Colorado.
In 1913, the city of Trinidad, Colorado, became the site of the first successful oil well-drilled west of the Mississippi River. The discovery led to a boom in oil production in the region, and Colorado became a major oil-producing state.
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.