History Highlights
Published on February 20, 2025
Weld County is the third largest county in Colorado by area, with over 4,000 square miles of rural, industrial, recreational and residential opportunities. As we continue to grow and expand into a hub of family, fun and business, let's take a look back at the pivotal moments that got us here.
This list of five highlights only scratches the surface of Weld County history — to explore more, make sure to visit our history site.
Early Settlers
The early settlers — from Swedish laborers in the late 1800s who dug ditches to establish the framework for agricultural irrigation to the Germans from Russia, Japanese and Latino families who worked in the fields and factories in the early 1900s — led to Weld County becoming a leader in agriculture. Read up on the interesting people who made Weld County what it is today.
Agricultural Roots
Sugar beets were a booming cash crop in Weld County. The first sugar beets were grown in 1872, the first sugar factories were built in 1902, and by the 1940s, upwards of 150,000 acres of sugar beets were harvested. Weather conditions affected the crop and the region in 1969, but Weld County had already ascended into a top 10 agricultural county and has held onto that title ever since. Learn more about the history of agriculture in Weld County.
Natural Resources
Following the discovery of oil and gas in nearby Wellington in November 1923, the Greeley Chamber of Commerce got to work assessing the possibility of striking oil in Weld County. The Greasewood area was determined to be a viable location. After some trial and error, the Greasewood oil well was established and oil started flowing in October 1930. Read the complete article about the Greasewood oil field.
Industry History
What do a car dealership, radio station and airport have in common? They are all businesses that have stood the test of time and continue to operate in Weld County. From the Weld County Garage that began selling buggies and shoeing horses in 1901 to KFKA making radio history in 1921 and the ever-expanding Greeley Municipal Airport opening in 1944, these resilient businesses represent Weld County's past and present. Learn more about other unique businesses that shaped Weld County.
Making Our Mark
In 1972, Dr. Robert B. Turner began teaching fine arts at the University of Northern Colorado. In 1973, he was commissioned to develop an official seal for Weld County. His design encompassed the diversity of Weld — wheat, a sugar beet and a cow to represent our agricultural roots; an oil lamp to represent the county’s educational wealth; and a cog in the center to represent our industrial development. Read more about Dr. Turner and the county seal.
By Shereen Lisa Dudar, Communications Specialist