The History of Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, nested at the base of the 14,110 foot high Peak of the Rocky Mountains, was considered at one point in time to be unconquerable and too rugged to be settled by humans. This claim was made after an attempted trek by Lt. Zebulon Pike and his men to this “great mountain” in 1806. Although, after being battered by a winter storm, he called off the exploration, his ambition was rewarded by becoming the namesake of what is now known as Pikes Peak.

The rush of gold prospectors to California during the mid 1800’s created a need for a midway point to where supplies and mining equipment could be housed. This place became known as Colorado City, now known as Old Colorado City. This developing area became of interest to General William Palmer who foresaw the area right outside of Colorado City as a resort town for upscale travelers. In 1871, Palmer began planning and founded the town that would be Colorado Springs. In 1891 gold was struck in Colorado Springs’ neighboring town of Cripple Creek initiating a large migration and settlement of people into Colorado Springs. The population is continually growing at a steady pace still today.

Spencer Penrose, another name associated with Colorado Springs, is largely responsible for the development of our town in the early 1900’s. He built the road to the top of Pikes Peak. He is responsible for the construction of the Broadmoor Hotel, the development of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun.

Colorado Springs is also known for its military population. As America became involved in WWII the country’s need for more military bases led to the development of both the Fort Carson Army Base and Peterson Air Force Base here in Colorado Springs. The military community has continued to grow with the addition of the Air Force Academy and the North American Aerospace Defense Command.

Besides the military, Colorado Springs’ economy is continually maintained by tourism, a high-tech market, and a diverse mix of small businesses, shopping, and recreational activities. Palmer would most likely be pleasantly surprised with the community that Colorado Springs has become today.