Historical Markers in Lincoln County, Colorado
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About Lincoln County
Lincoln County Timeline
Lincoln County, Colorado has a rich history rooted in the American West. The county was established on April 11, 1889, and was named after Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cheyenne and Arapaho.
The county's history took a major turn with the arrival of the Kansas Pacific Railroad in 1870. The railroad played a significant role in the growth and development of Lincoln County, attracting settlers and facilitating the transportation of goods and passengers. Along with the railroad, agricultural development also shaped the county's history, as farmers and ranchers began to utilize the fertile land for farming and raising livestock.
Lincoln County also has a notable connection to the outlaw days of the Wild West. The infamous gunslinger and outlaw, Billy the Kid, was said to have spent time in the county, particularly in the town of Hugo. The county's law enforcement became intertwined with legends and tales of outlaws, adding to its historical allure.
In the present day, Lincoln County continues to thrive as an agricultural community, with farming, ranching, and oil and gas production being important industries. The county is also known for its recreational opportunities, offering hunting, fishing, and hiking in its vast natural landscapes. Despite the passage of time, the legacy of the county's past, from its Native American heritage to its connections to the Wild West, continues to shape and inspire the community today.
The county's history took a major turn with the arrival of the Kansas Pacific Railroad in 1870. The railroad played a significant role in the growth and development of Lincoln County, attracting settlers and facilitating the transportation of goods and passengers. Along with the railroad, agricultural development also shaped the county's history, as farmers and ranchers began to utilize the fertile land for farming and raising livestock.
Lincoln County also has a notable connection to the outlaw days of the Wild West. The infamous gunslinger and outlaw, Billy the Kid, was said to have spent time in the county, particularly in the town of Hugo. The county's law enforcement became intertwined with legends and tales of outlaws, adding to its historical allure.
In the present day, Lincoln County continues to thrive as an agricultural community, with farming, ranching, and oil and gas production being important industries. The county is also known for its recreational opportunities, offering hunting, fishing, and hiking in its vast natural landscapes. Despite the passage of time, the legacy of the county's past, from its Native American heritage to its connections to the Wild West, continues to shape and inspire the community today.
Lincoln County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lincoln County, Colorado.
- 1889 - Lincoln County is established on April 11th.
- 1890 - The first town in the county, Genoa, is founded.
- 1890s - The county experiences a period of growth due to the railroad expansion.
- 1909 - The county seat is moved from Genoa to Hugo.
- 1930s - The Dust Bowl affects the county, causing agricultural devastation.
- 1953 - The county's courthouse is destroyed by fire.
- 1960 - The courthouse is rebuilt and completed.
- 1985 - A tornado hits the town of Limon, causing significant damage.
- 2002 - The county celebrates its centennial.
- 2010 - The county experiences population growth, with an increase of over 20%.