Weld County heritage
Published on September 06, 2024
The independent spirit of the people who have called the West “home” throughout history is visible throughout Weld County. From the people who lived in this place to the people who wrote about this place, there are many opportunities to learn and enjoy the heritage of this amazing land.
South Platte Valley Historic Park - 2001 Historic Pkwy, Fort Lupton
The South Platte Valley Historic Park encompasses 100 acres along the South Platte River just northwest of the town of Fort Lupton. Included in the historic park is a visitor center, four historic structures and a large park area along the river. The South Platte Valley Historic Park is dedicated to allowing the public to experience the early settlement of the west and Colorado by preserving the site and area along the South Platte River that was the location of one of the early trade forts in the west. Be sure to visit the South Platte Valley Historical Society webpage to learn about all the attractions and events held in this amazing park.
James A. Michener Library - 1400 22nd St. Greeley
In 1974, American author James Michener wrote the epic novel "Centennial," which was set in northern Colorado. Five years later, the book was adapted into a television mini-series and was nominated for both a Golden Globe and an Emmy.
As Amy Zimmer, Technical Services Librarian with the State Publications Library wrote, “Michener spent a great deal of time in Colorado researching "Centennial," renting an apartment in Capitol Hill and also spending much time in the northern part of the state, where the novel is set. Check out more information about the book.
Highway 14 - Pawnee Pioneer Trails Scenic Byway
Highway 14 leads travelers east from Ault to Sterling. Travelers can imagine how the shortgrass prairie appeared to Native Americans many centuries ago, and to the frontiersmen, cattle ranchers, and homesteaders who followed. Read more about the byway at https://www.colorado.com/articles/colorado-scenic-byway-pawnee-pioneer-trails.
Highway 85 - Trappers' Trail
On the east side of Weld County, along Highway 85, which runs north/south from Brighton to the Colorado/Wyoming border, is part of what is known as Trappers' Trail. In the early 1800s, fur traders established a series of forts along the various waterways on Colorado's Front Range where they traded various goods, including pelts. In Weld County, there were originally four fur trading forts: Lupton, Vasquez, Jackson and St. Vrain - all located along the South Platte River. For more information on Trapper’s Trail, read Legends of America’s article.
By Shaley Dehner, Communications Specialist