Gunnison Colorado History

Named in honor of John W. Gunnison, the unique mountain town of Gunnison, Colorado has enjoyed a rich history. The area was first discovered by Gunnison as he explored areas in search of the best route for a railroad across the Colorado Rockies. From railroad route to year round tourist destination, the changes in the area have been many.

The region first known as Gunnison Country began to flourish in the 1870's as mining became prevalent in Colorado. First, a homeland to the Ute Indians, they were forced out as miners, traders and ranchers came into the area. On May 22, 1877, the town of Gunnison became the official county seat of Gunnison County.

The railroad came to the area in 1880 and its arrival marked an increase in the productivity of miners, ranchers and farmers in the Gunnison Valley. Despite the seemingly bright future, by 1883, the town had "busted" and only half of the original population remained. The ore veins that had been discovered in the area had played out. However, due to its location, Gunnison remained as the hub of enterprise for that portion of Colorado. Originally, named Colorado State Normal School, Colorado Western State College was founded in Gunnison in 1909.

Today the city of Gunnison is an educational center, the surrounding countryside is rich with mineral deposits and ranch lands, and tourism plays an important part in the economy of the region.