Old mining building near Silverton, Colorado

History

Our rich history.

The mining town that wouldn't quit.

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Town of Silverton Land Acknowledgement The people of Silverton honor the land and Wiinuuchi band of Utes who saw it as their home and kept it healthy for future generations. We acknowledge that the Brunot Agreement unfairly stole the Utes' land after all Ute bands were moved to the western portion of the state. As we live, work, play, and learn on this land we will remember and continue their legacy of stewardship.

In search of wealth

In 1860, Charles Baker and a group of prospectors ventured into the San Juan Mountains, seeking riches. They discovered gold and silver deposits along the Animas River, naming the area "Baker's Park". While they stayed through the summer, they returned to northern New Mexico for the winter. Despite the discovery spreading, the Civil War and the fact that the land belonged to the Ute Indians delayed miners from returning until the early 1870s.

During this time, nearly 1,000 prospectors once again journeyed into the mountains. Despite protests from the Utes, the influx of miners and settlers continued over Stony Pass.

Old mining building near Silverton, Colorado
A colorful past

In 1874, Silverton's town site was established, quickly becoming the hub of numerous mining camps. Alongside miners, the town attracted the attention of a Denver railroad company. In July 1882, the inaugural train from Durango, operated by the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad, arrived in Silverton. By 1883, Silverton boasted a population of 2,000, featuring 400 buildings, including 2 banks, 5 laundries, 29 saloons, hotels, and the notorious red-light district, Blair Street.

From 1874, families began relocating to Silverton, prompting efforts to maintain respectability within the town. An imaginary line down Greene Street symbolized the division between law-abiding residents and the establishments associated with gambling, prostitution, and entertainment.

In May 1883, a grand jury indicted 117 "lewd women" on Notorious Blair Street. While fines were imposed, gambling and prostitution were somewhat tolerated as long as they remained confined to certain areas. Such lascivious behavior was not necessarily condemned, as fines were readily used for the growing community.

Old mining building near Silverton, Colorado
Shifting from Mining to Tourism & Lifestyle

Mining operations in Silverton ceased in the early 1990s due to a sluggish market and decreased demand. However, the rich deposits of gold and silver in the mountains remain, sparking rumors of a potential revival in mining activity in the future. Interestingly, perhaps the true "gold" of Silverton lies in its picturesque mountainsides, which attract thousands of visitors annually and fuel its residents connection to nature. Silverton is now transitioning into a family-friendly community with excellent schools, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and remote workers. While not for everyone, residents cherish the area's remote location, unique lifestyle, and easy access to the 89% of public land within the county.

Want to learn more about Silverton's history? Visit the Heritage Tourism Page.

Want to learn more about where we are headed as a community? Check out Silverton's Master Compass Plan.