Colorado Vacations
Vacation Planning Guide for Visiting Colorado with the Kids
Vacation Planning Guide for Visiting Colorado with the Kids
Denver History
Denver's history as a major supply hub for gold mines in the mountains to the west, and cattle ranches to the east, makes it a colorful and and interesting place for families to explore.
 Photo: Denver's Larimer Square Photo Credit: Denver Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau Larimer Square, one of the first streets in Denver and once its skid row, is now one of the city's most trendy and popular shopping districts. |
Elitch Gardens - Then and Now
Photo: Historic photo of Denver, circa 1900.
Photo Credit: William Henry Jackson
Before 1858, the area that is now Denver was a pleasant hunting and camping area for Arapaho and Cheyenne people.
In late November of that year, prospectors found gold in the cold waters at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River. They established a town, which was soon swollen by hordes of venturers in the 1859 gold rush.
By 1890, Denver’s population had grown to the point that it was the second biggest city in the West, after San Francisco.
Its banking industry grew as gold strikes continued in nearby mountain towns. In 1863, the federal government established a mint facility Denver. At first it served only as an assay office, where miners would bring their gold nuggets and dust to be melted and cast into gold bars. It wasn’t until 1906 that the Denver Mint began to produce coins.
At the same time, nearby agriculture also contributed to Denver’s wealth. Farm crops grown in the fertile Platte River Valley and livestock that grew on the high plains found a shipping hub in Denver.
By 1899 livestock shows and auctions were being organized in Denver, and in 1906, the National Western Stock Show was born. Still in its original location near the Denver Stockyards on the South Platte River, the National Western Stock Show now hosts over 600,000 spectators annually.
Through a diversity of industries, including tourism, a sunny, temperate climate, and scenic setting, Denver has continued to grow to become a major metropolitan area.
Related Articles:
Denver Overview
Best Denver Area Attractions for Families
Colorado Springs History for Families
Leadville History for Families
Steamboat Springs History for Families
Best Family Attractions in Colorado