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Leadville, Colorado is North America's highest incorporated town, perched at about 10,200 feet above sea level. This Rocky Mountain getaway is a treasure of historic buildings and mining memorabilia.
Incorporated in 1878, the town has avoided ghost-town status because of farming, ranching and tourism.
The roads heading to Leadville are lined with abandoned silver and lead mines, which made the area a boom town in the late 1800s. At one time, the mines drew an estimated population of 40,000 people. In the 1890s, after the silver mining boom, Leadville stayed alive when gold was discovered. Today, Leadville, Colorado is a popular tourist destination.
Leadville is home to a number of old relics, mansions and buildings from years past. Many of the sites are within walking distance of one another, making Leadville and ideal place for a stroll through history.
Healy House and Dexter Cabin
912 Harrison Avenue
This Victorian house was built in 1878. Its first occupant was mining engineer August R. Meyer. It was later occupied by Don Healy, thus the name. Today, the house is a museum showcase of Victorian life.
The Healy House shares ground with the Dexter Cabin, which was built in 1879. It is touted as the "only mid-Victorian cabin" in the United States.
Tabor House
116 E. Fifth Street
After his term, ex-President and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant were entertained in this home in 1880. The home, built in 1877, was the residence of Mr. and Mrs. H.A.W. Tabor, who made their fortune in silver.
In addition to the historic sites mentioned, there are other historic landmarks as well. Be sure and reserve time to visit the mining museum.
The National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum
120 W. 9th Street
Leadville, CO
80461
The summer hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday - Friday (November - April).
Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors (62 and older) and $2 for children (ages 6-11).
The museum is an ideal tourist stop for families, and is sure to keep children and adults entertained. While adults may enjoy perusing the photos of Hall of Famers, children are thrilled to tour the mine replica. The history of mining is exhibited through this enchanting exhibit.
There are many samples of ores, including gold, and a series of dioramas illustrate gold mining. Children may be so enthralled by these exhibits that you may want to allow plenty of time (a few hours) for this museum stop.
Visitors can look at current mining as they eye models of mines that operate today. Other exhibits include the Peschel Collection of axes, The Gold Rush Room and Crystal room, and the Magic Room of Industrial Minerals.
This museum is truly a pleasant surprise for guests of all ages. The exhibits are well-organized, informative and very intriguing. A first floor gift shop is an ideal end to the visit, and features mining related souvenirs as well as creations from local artisans.
When you have finished walking through these wonderful historic sites, perhaps you will want to relax with some hot coffee and a pastry. Leadville offers delightful bakeries, restaurants, and a choice of lodging. Once you've driven all the way up to this high altitude paradise, you'll want to at least spend the night. And when you close your eyes, imagine life over a hundred years ago, with the sounds of miners busily seeking their fortune. Leadville is certainly a trip back to the glory days of mining.
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