Historical Markers in Elbert County, 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.
About Elbert County
Elbert County Timeline
Elbert County, located in Colorado, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Before European settlement, the area was home to nomadic Native American tribes such as the Cheyenne and Arapaho. These tribes utilized the land for hunting and gathering and left behind evidence of their presence in the form of artifacts like arrowheads and stone tools.
The first recorded exploration of the area by Europeans occurred in the early 1800s, with fur trappers and traders venturing into Elbert County. However, permanent settlement did not begin until the mid-1800s when gold was discovered in neighboring Colorado Territory. This led to an influx of settlers in search of wealth, and small communities began to form in Elbert County.
Agriculture played a significant role in the county's development, with settlers establishing farms and ranches to support the growing population. Elbert County quickly became known for its fertile soil and abundant natural resources, attracting even more settlers. In 1874, the county was officially formed and named after the territorial governor, Samuel H. Elbert.
As the twentieth century progressed, Elbert County maintained its rural character, with agriculture remaining the dominant industry. The county continued to grow slowly, and improvements in transportation, such as the construction of highways, made it more accessible to the rest of Colorado. Today, Elbert County is known for its picturesque landscapes, small-town charm, and close-knit community. It continues to be an important agricultural area, while also offering recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
The first recorded exploration of the area by Europeans occurred in the early 1800s, with fur trappers and traders venturing into Elbert County. However, permanent settlement did not begin until the mid-1800s when gold was discovered in neighboring Colorado Territory. This led to an influx of settlers in search of wealth, and small communities began to form in Elbert County.
Agriculture played a significant role in the county's development, with settlers establishing farms and ranches to support the growing population. Elbert County quickly became known for its fertile soil and abundant natural resources, attracting even more settlers. In 1874, the county was officially formed and named after the territorial governor, Samuel H. Elbert.
As the twentieth century progressed, Elbert County maintained its rural character, with agriculture remaining the dominant industry. The county continued to grow slowly, and improvements in transportation, such as the construction of highways, made it more accessible to the rest of Colorado. Today, Elbert County is known for its picturesque landscapes, small-town charm, and close-knit community. It continues to be an important agricultural area, while also offering recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Elbert County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Elbert County, Colorado.
- 1859: Gold discoveries in the area lead to the establishment of the town of Russellville.
- 1874: The town of Elizabeth is founded and becomes the county seat.
- 1874: Elbert County is officially established on February 2.
- 1889: The Colorado and Southern Railroad reaches Elizabeth, boosting the town's growth.
- 1902: The town of Kiowa is incorporated.
- 1917: The town of Simla is incorporated.
- 1923: The Lincoln Highway, now known as Interstate 70, is completed.
- 1930s: The Great Depression hits Elbert County, causing significant economic challenges.
- 1965: The Denver International Airport is proposed and later built in neighboring Adams County.
- 1999: Elbert County experiences rapid population growth due to its proximity to the Denver metropolitan area.
- 2012: The town of Elbert incorporates.