Aspen Live Cam

Aspen, Colorado, has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. Originally inhabited by the Ute Native American tribe, the area now known as Aspen was named "Shining Mountains" by the Utes due to its stunning natural beauty. Here's an overview of the history of Aspen:

• Early Settlement: European settlers arrived in the area in the 1870s during the Colorado Silver Boom. Silver was discovered in the nearby mountains, leading to a rapid influx of prospectors and miners. The town of Aspen was founded in 1879, named after the abundance of aspen trees in the region.
• Silver Mining Boom: Aspen quickly became one of the most productive silver-mining towns in the United States. The silver mines brought wealth and prosperity to the area, attracting people from various backgrounds. The population grew, and the town developed rapidly, boasting impressive Victorian-era architecture and infrastructure.
• Economic Challenges: The silver market experienced significant fluctuations, leading to economic instability in Aspen. In 1893, the repeal of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act, which supported the price of silver, caused a dramatic decline in silver prices. Many mines closed, and the town's population dwindled.