Welcome to the Canon City Local History-Museum in Cañon City, Colorado, where the past comes alive with stories of exploration, innovation, and community building. Founded to preserve and interpret the rich history of Fremont County, this museum is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and stories that depict the evolution of the region.
Cañon City itself was established during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush in 1858, initially intended as a commercial hub for mining in South Park and along the upper Arkansas River. The city grew rapidly, and by 1861, it was organizing volunteer companies to serve in the American Civil War. The town’s history took a significant turn when A. M. Cassaday drilled the first commercial oil well west of the Mississippi River in 1862, marking the beginning of an industrial era.
One of the most notable figures associated with Cañon City is William Dallas DeWeese, a pioneer in both horticulture and tourism. Moving to Cañon City in 1884, DeWeese was instrumental in irrigating over 10,000 acres of land, promoting fruit tree cultivation, and boosting the local economy. His passion for nature also led him to Alaska, where he undertook surveys for the United States Department of Agriculture, contributing valuable specimens to the Smithsonian Institution.
As the city developed, so did its infrastructure. The Colorado Territorial Penitentiary, opened in 1871, became a major institution, with inmate labor contributing to city projects such as the construction of Skyline Drive in 1905. This scenic road remains a popular attraction today, built with the sweat and effort of those incarcerated at the time.
Cañon City evolved from a mining outpost to a bustling community, with the Royal Gorge railroad and extensive hiking paths contributing to its status as a tourist destination. The museum captures these transformations with a collection of historic photographs, newspapers, and personal artifacts that tell the story of a city shaped by its natural surroundings and industrious residents.
Today, Cañon City is not only known for its historical significance but also for its natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich tapestry of Colorado’s history while enjoying the stunning landscapes of the Arkansas River Valley.
