Hotchkiss Methodist Episcopal Church
a.k.a. Hotchkiss United Methodist Church; Hotchkiss Community United Methodist Church
285 N. 2nd St., Hotchkiss, CO Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
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.
Colorado is home to many famous ski resorts, including Vail, Breckenridge, and Aspen. Skiing was first introduced to the state in the 1930s, and has since become a major part of Colorado's tourism industry.
The 19th century marked the arrival of settlers and the establishment of permanent towns in Delta County. In 1855, the first permanent settlement was created in the present-day town of Elberta. The gold rush in the nearby mountains attracted prospectors, leading to the establishment of mining towns like Delta and Hotchkiss. Agriculture also played a crucial role in the county's development, with crops such as fruit orchards and sugar beets becoming significant in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Delta County saw periods of growth and decline throughout its history. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century opened up opportunities for trade and transportation, boosting the county's economy. However, the decline of mining in the 20th century caused economic hardships for the area. Nevertheless, agriculture remained a strong sector, and efforts were made to diversify the county's economy.
In recent years, Delta County has seen a resurgence in its economy, thanks to the growth of tourism, outdoor recreation, and the local food movement. The county's picturesque landscapes, including the Grand Mesa, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and the Gunnison River, have attracted visitors year-round. Additionally, Delta County has embraced sustainable agriculture and local food production, which has rejuvenated the farming community and spurred the development of local businesses and markets. Today, Delta County continues to preserve its unique history and natural beauty while embracing new opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Delta County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Delta County, Colorado.
- 1883 - Delta County was established on February 11, 1883, by the Colorado General Assembly.
- Late 1800s - Agriculture and mining became the primary economic activities in the county.
- Early 1900s - The county saw a boom in coal mining, which brought significant economic growth.
- 1930s - The Great Depression hit Delta County hard, causing a decline in mining and agricultural activities.
- 1940s - Agriculture made a comeback with the introduction of irrigation and the cultivation of crops like apples and peaches.
- 1950s - The county experienced a period of growth and development, with the construction of highways and infrastructure improvements.
- 1970s - The county faced economic challenges due to declining coal mining activities.
- 1980s - Delta County shifted its focus towards promoting tourism and recreational activities, taking advantage of its scenic landscapes and outdoor opportunities.
- 2000s - The county continued to diversify its economy, emphasizing renewable energy sectors such as solar and wind power.
- 2010s - Delta County has been actively promoting local agriculture, including the growth of organic farming and farmers markets.