Despite not having become a state until 100 years after America's inception, Colorado is home to historic sites galore! But even before our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence, Colorado was the stomping ground for some larger-than-life residents who left a definite mark around northwest Colorado.
Located near the Colorado/Utah border in the aptly named town of Dinosaur is that of Dinosaur National Monument, which spans countless miles, a whopping 800 paleontological sites, and spectacular views unlike anything you have experienced! If you have yet to see this unforgettable part of history for yourself, check out this incredible video from YouTube user Phyllis Hamilton:
Have you ever wondered where was the first rodeo in America? While many out-of-staters associate Colorado with legal marijuana and skiing, there is another side to the Centennial State that many do not realize: Colorado is THE place for cowboys and rodeos! In fact, not only does Colorado host the iconic National Western Stockshow, but we also hosted the first rodeo in America!
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Welcome to Deer Trail, a tiny Eastern Plains town that hosted the first rodeo in Colorado. Not only that, but it was the first-ever rodeo in the country.
Taking place on July 4, 1869, the Deer Trail Rodeo in Colorado consisted of many of the same things you will find in modern rodeos, including the "Bronco Bustin' Contest," where area ranchers rode their outlaw horses and fought tooth and nail not to be kicked off.
Though other cities and states may try to lay claim to hosting the first rodeo, Deer Trail has proven to be the actual location, thanks to its records in the Guinness Book of World Records, Colorado State Legislature, Pro-Rodeo Hall of Fame, and the History. Channel.
When you visit the Deer Trail Rodeo today, you will experience the rough riding excitement from that first show, plus bull riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, and much more.
Colorado has seen its fair share of crazy since becoming a state in 1876... but the craziest thing to happen in recent years might just be the story of Charles Abbott and his attorney, Soloman the Owl. What is so crazy about this case in particular? Well, for starters...
Unfortunately for Abbott, the judge wasn't humored by Soloman or his supposed expertise and essentially ignored the well-educated bird. Abbott was in court for violating a protection order against his former roommate.
Folks; I am not making this up. Do you think this is one of the most funny things that happened in Colorado? Or do you have another bit of Colorado history in mind? Let us know!
If you're passionate about the wackier parts of Colorado's past and present, you can always unplug, grab your trusty road atlas, and get on the road to hunt down some of the most interesting roadside attractions in Colorado.
