The History of Allenspark
Allenspark is a small mountain town with a rich history that dates back to the Colorado Gold Rush of 1859. While the area was originally populated by farmers and ranchers, tourism began to thrive in the late 19th century, as the allure of the mountains drew visitors seeking respite from the city.
Follow the timeline below to take a journey through AP's history!
1859
Allenspark's namesake, Alonzo Nelson Allen, left his family in Columbus, Wisconsin, to seek his fortune in the Kansas/Nebraska Territories that became Colorado during the Colorado Gold Rush.
1864
Allen built the first cabin in Allenspark, where he prospected and ran cattle. The cabin burned down in 1894, the year Allen died.
Late 1890s
Tourism began to boom in the Allenspark area, and farmers and miners found a better income catering to tourists during the summer months. The first post office application was filed in May 1896 by C.K. Hirshfeld.
1896
George Mack was granted a homestead patent January 7, 1895, for 160 acres that would become the village of Allenspark. The Allens Park Land and Townsite Co. bought Mack’s property on May 9, 1896, filing a plat for the village on May 23, 1896, when they began selling small building lots. Allenspark got its first post office that same year.
1900-1920
The village of Allenspark began to grow when summer people bought land and built cabins. The greater Allenspark area extends beyond the village to include the small communities of Ferncliff, Longs Peak, Meeker Park, Peaceful Valley, Raymond, and Riverside.
1920s-1930s
Skiing was popular in the Allenspark area when international ski jumping competitions were held. Jumps and ski courses included the Willow Creek Slide, Thelma Slide, Butter Bowl, Haugen Slide, and Point-O-Pines. The Rock Creek Ski area was developed after World War II and operated until 1952. Cross-country skiing is still popular, especially on Rock Creek and in Wild Basin.
2000
500 residences were listed in the phone book in the Allenspark area.
2010
The census counted a total of 892 housing units, 267 of which were occupied on Census Day (April 1) and 577 of which were seasonally occupied.
Today
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Today, Allenspark remains a small, tight-knit community nestled in the Rocky Mountains, with a population of around 500 people.
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Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities in the surrounding wilderness, including hiking, fishing, rock climbing, and skiing.
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The town's rustic charm and preserved historical buildings offer a unique glimpse into Colorado's frontier past, while local businesses continue to thrive thanks to a modest tourism industry.
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Despite its small size, Allenspark boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with frequent events and workshops held throughout the year.
Future
The future of Allenspark is yet to be written, but we hope Allenspark continues to maintain its charming small-town feel and rich history, while also welcoming new visitors who appreciate its natural beauty and unique character. Local businesses thrive, offering authentic experiences and products that reflect the town's values and traditions. The community works together to balance growth with preservation, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same timeless beauty and sense of place that makes Allenspark so special.
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