Lasauses, Colorado facts for kids
Los Sauces is a small community located in Conejos County, Colorado, United States. It sits on the west side of the famous Rio Grande river. This quiet place has a rich history, especially linked to how people traveled long ago.
History of Los Sauces
Los Sauces began around 1847. It was an important spot because it had a "ford." A ford is a shallow place where wagons and stagecoaches could cross the Rio Grande river. This made it a key stop for travelers.
Even though it was small, Los Sauces had a few important buildings. It had a store where people could buy supplies. There was also a dancehall for fun and gatherings. The community even had its own post office from 1895 to 1920.
In 1941, about 150 people lived in Los Sauces. Records show that Antonio Marquez, Jose Rodriques, and Fernando Borrego settled the area between 1863 and 1864.
The Name: Los Sauces
The name "Los Sauces" comes from the Spanish language. It means "the willows." The community was named after the many willow trees that grew along the river and nearby lagoons.
Interestingly, the name had a small mix-up. It was meant to be "Los Sauses" (which is another way to say "willows" in Spanish). However, when the post office application was filled out, it was written as "La Sauses." This mistake was never corrected on official papers.
Despite the old spelling error, people from the area still call the town by its correct name, Los Sauces. You might even see some highway signs that have been updated to show the right spelling.
Historic Church
Los Sauces is home to a special adobe church. It is called La Capilla de San Antonio de Padua. The first church building was built in 1880. It was later replaced by a new one in 1928. This historic church is so important that it is listed on the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties.
Location Details
- Lasauses 37°16′00″N 105°44′47″W / 37.26667°N 105.74639°W
