Altman, Colorado facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Altman, Colorado
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Headframe at road entering Altman, Colorado
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 Altman, Colorado
Location in Colorado
Altman, Colorado
Location in the United States
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| Country |  United States |
| State |  Colorado |
| County | Teller County |
| Government | |
| • Type | ghost town |
| Elevation | 10,630 ft (3,240 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-7 (MST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-6 (MDT) |
| GNIS feature ID | 0203908 |
Altman is a fascinating ghost town located in Teller County, Colorado, in the United States. It used to be a busy mining town, but now it's mostly abandoned.
Altman had its own post office for many years. It opened on January 18, 1894. The post office helped people send and receive mail in this remote area. However, it closed down on May 30, 1911.
A big fire caused a lot of damage in Altman. On May 24, 1903, much of the town was destroyed. This event was a major setback for the community.
Contents
Exploring Altman: A Colorado Ghost Town
Altman is known as an "extinct mining town." This means it was once a lively place where people worked in mines. Over time, the mines closed, and people moved away. This left the town mostly empty, turning it into a ghost town.
Where is Altman Located?
Altman is found in the state of Colorado. It is specifically in Teller County. The town sits high up in the mountains. Its elevation is about 10,630 feet (3,240 meters) above sea level. This makes it one of the higher settlements in the area.
The History of Altman
Altman was established in 1876. It grew because of the mining industry. Miners came to the area looking for valuable minerals. The town provided homes and services for these workers.
Life in a Mining Town
Life in a mining town like Altman was often tough. People worked hard in the mines. The town had stores, homes, and other buildings to support the community. The post office was an important part of daily life. It connected the town to the outside world.
The Big Fire of 1903
The fire in 1903 was a tragic event for Altman. It destroyed many buildings. This made it even harder for the town to keep going. Many people might have left after the fire.
Why Did Altman Become a Ghost Town?
Several things led to Altman becoming a ghost town. When the mines stopped producing enough minerals, jobs became scarce. The big fire also played a role in its decline. People moved to other places to find work and build new lives. Today, Altman stands as a reminder of Colorado's mining past.
