You are here

People and Pioneers of Colorado

Colorado has a rich and varied community of people from every corner of the world. When "Pioneers" arrived during the Gold Rush of 1858, they were greeted by First Peoples/Native Americans, Hispanic settlers, and frontier adventurers. Through both peaceful and tumultuous times, these communities have forged Coloradans.

Research Tools: 

Colorado Portrait and Biography Index: 1931, 1932, 1933, Denver (Bromwell)

Henrietta Bromwell, local historian and genealogist, indexed local, county and regional Colorado histories, newspapers, magazines and early land records from 1859-1933. Around 31,000 entries over 4 volumes and 2 supplements provides information on Coloradans from a wide spectrum of society. This PDF contains the original 4-volume set, but not the appendices.

Smiley's History of Denver

Published in 1901, Smiley’s History of Denver was originally compiled for the Denver Times. Jerome Smiley’s book gives a very detailed early history of Denver and the region. Beginning with the development of local geological formations, Smiley takes the reader through prehistoric inhabitants, Spanish and French exploration of the area, fur traders and trappers, early settlers, the growth of Denver, and finally Denver’s prospects for the future.

Foundation Stones

"Lest We Forget
The ox team; the covered wagon; the long trek; the hair-breadth escape from hostile Indians; the log house; the forts for defence [sic]; the many privations, these brief personal sketches will remind us of our obligation to the Old Pioneer"

Smiley's History of Denver

Published in 1901, Smiley’s History of Denver was originally compiled for the Denver Times. Jerome Smiley’s book gives a very detailed early history of Denver and the region. Beginning with the development of local geological formations, Smiley takes the reader through prehistoric inhabitants, Spanish and French exploration of the area, fur traders and trappers, early settlers, the growth of Denver, and finally Denver’s prospects for the future.

Clipping Files: Biography (WHG)

The clipping files are a large collection of articles of local interest which have been gathered from a variety of newspapers. The articles range in date from the early 1900's to the present. They are available for use on-site in the Library. The subject heading of Biography includes a list of the clippings of notables and lesser known persons.