Park County, Jefferson Territory facts for kids

Park County was a special area, like a county, that existed for a short time in a place called the Jefferson Territory. This territory wasn't officially recognized by the United States government. Park County was around from November 28, 1859, until February 28, 1861.

The Story of Park County

In July 1858, people found gold near the South Platte River. This exciting discovery started the Pike's Peak Gold Rush, where many people rushed to the area hoping to find gold.

Many of these gold miners felt very far away from the main governments of Kansas and Nebraska. They decided to create their own government. So, on October 24, 1859, they voted to form the Jefferson Territory.

A month later, on November 28, the leaders of the Jefferson Territory created 12 counties. Park County was one of them. The law that created Park County said it would cover the area known as the South Park.

Park County got its name from South Park. Today, much of this area is part of Park County, Colorado.

Early Settlements in Park County

The new mining towns in Park County included:

• Tarryall City
• Jefferson
• Hamilton
• Montgomery
• Buckskin Joe (also called Laurette)

From Jefferson to Colorado Territory

The Jefferson Territory was never officially approved by the U.S. government. But on February 28, 1861, U.S. President James Buchanan signed a law creating the Territory of Colorado.

Later that year, on November 1, 1861, the new Colorado Territory also organized its own counties. Park County was one of the 17 counties created for the new Colorado Territory.

First Leaders of Park County

Park County's first official leader was George W. Bowers. He was chosen by Governor Robert Williamson Steele in December 1859 to be the President Judge of Park County. He held this job until the county's first public election was held on January 2, 1860.