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History of Salida, Colorado

The History of our County and the surrounding area is a rich mix of many influences. The area was originally settled by the Ute Indians, for whom many of the local mountain peaks are named. Chaffee County was established in 1879 and named for Jerome Chaffee, Colorado's first United States Senator and local investor. Early in its history the area experienced an influx of explorers, miners, railroad expansionists, farmers and ranchers. The influence of each has dwindled over the years, but their mark in the history of the area is evident throughout the valley.