Paradox, Colorado facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Paradox, Colorado
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Paradox wooden storefront in 2010
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 Paradox, Colorado
Location in Colorado
Paradox, Colorado
Location in the United States
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| Country |  United States |
| State |  Colorado |
| County | Montrose |
| Elevation | 5,299 ft (1,615 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-7 (MST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-6 (MDT) |
| ZIP code |
81429
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| Area code(s) | 970 |
| GNIS feature ID | 185829 |
Paradox is a small, unincorporated community in Montrose County, Colorado, United States. It has its own U.S. Post Office with the ZIP Code 81429. Paradox is located in a unique area called the Paradox Valley.
Contents
Why is it Called Paradox?
The name "Paradox" was given to this area in 1875 by a geologist named Albert Charles Peale. He thought the Dolores River acted in a very unusual way. Instead of flowing along the valley, the river cuts straight across it. It even goes through tall cliff walls at a 90-degree angle! This strange path made him feel like the river was doing something "paradoxical," which means something that seems impossible or contradictory.
Getting to Paradox Valley
Early settlers found it very hard to reach Paradox Valley. To get their wagons into the valley, they had to take them apart. Then, they would lower the pieces down into the valley using ropes. This shows how challenging the landscape was!
History of Paradox
The land around Paradox was first home to the Ute people. Later, in the 1870s, ranchers from Europe and America began to settle there.
A Post Office and Mining Begin
- In 1882, a post office was opened in Paradox.
- Mining started in 1897. At first, people mined for copper.
- Later, they discovered uranium. Paradox became known as a "yellowcake boomtown" because of the uranium mining.
- Uranium ore was first found at the Raja mine. Samples were sent to scientists in France, including Marie Curie, for study.
Uranium Mining and Its Effects
Mining for uranium was a big part of Paradox's history. However, working with uranium can be dangerous. Some people who worked in the local uranium mines and mills faced health challenges later in life.
Geography of Paradox
Paradox is located within the Paradox Valley. This valley is known for its unusual geology, especially the way the Dolores River flows through it.
Population of Paradox
In 1991, about 200 people lived in Paradox.
