The History of Durango Colorado

Durango, Colorado is a picturesque town located in the southwest corner of the state. The town has a rich and fascinating history, shaped by the rugged terrain, the mining boom, and the early pioneers who settled in the area. From ancient Native American tribes to the modern-day outdoor enthusiasts, Durango’s history is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the people who call it home.

The earliest inhabitants of the Durango area were the Ancestral Puebloans, who lived in the region from approximately 550 AD to 1300 AD. These ancient people left behind an impressive array of cliff dwellings, rock art, and other artifacts that provide a glimpse into their culture and way of life. Some of the most notable examples of their work can be seen at Mesa Verde National Park, located just 35 miles west of Durango.

In the late 1600s, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, looking for gold and silver. The Spanish named the region “El Rio de las Animas Perdidas en Purgatorio,” which translates to “The River of Lost Souls in Purgatory.” The name stuck, and the town that eventually grew up in the area became known as Durango.

The next major wave of settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, drawn to the area by the promise of gold and silver. Durango quickly became a hub of mining activity, with numerous mines operating in the surrounding hills. The town itself grew rapidly, with new businesses and homes springing up to support the miners and their families.

In 1881, the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad arrived in Durango, marking a major turning point in the town’s history. The railroad provided a more efficient way to transport people and goods to and from the area, and it helped to spur further growth and development in the town. Durango’s downtown area, with its charming Victorian-era buildings and brick-paved streets, is a testament to this period of growth and prosperity.

Despite the boom times, life in Durango was not always easy. The town was hit by several devastating fires in the late 1800s and early 1900s, which destroyed many of the town’s buildings and homes. However, the people of Durango were resilient, and they worked tirelessly to rebuild and improve the town in the years that followed.

During the early 1900s, Durango experienced a brief but intense period of violence and lawlessness. The town became known as a “wild west” town, with shoot-outs and gunfights occurring on a regular basis. However, this period was relatively short-lived, and Durango soon regained its reputation as a peaceful and prosperous town.

In the years that followed, Durango continued to grow and evolve. The town became known as a hub for outdoor recreation, with hiking, skiing, and mountain biking among the most popular activities. Today, Durango is home to a thriving arts scene, a bustling downtown area, and some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country.

Throughout its history, Durango has been shaped by the rugged terrain, the mining boom, and the pioneering spirit of the people who call it home. From the ancient Ancestral Puebloans to the modern-day adventurers who flock to the area, Durango’s history is a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and spirit of the human experience.