You Will Want To See This Endangered Part Of Colorado History While You Still Can
Goodnight Barn in Pueblo County, a historic structure from the Goodnight-Loving cattle trail, is endangered and may be moved from its original location.
Overall, the Centennial State is great about preserving landmarks and artifacts that hold an important piece of Colorado history. From Bent's Old Fort to Mesa Verde and beyond, there are plenty of these historic gems to go around. However, despite the state's best efforts, one important piece of Colorado's past may be endangered, which is why you will want to see it while you still can.
Located in Pueblo County, the Goodnight Barn is the last remaining structure on the Goodnight Rock Canon Ranch, which was once a vital stop along the Goodnight-Loving cattle trail. Built in 1870, the Goodnight Barn is constructed by sandstone and — despite being listed on the National Register of Historic Places — is in danger of being moved from its original location. Thanks to our friends at History Colorado, we can get a better look at this beautiful structure, as well as learn more about preservation efforts:
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.
