Roswell, Colorado facts for kids

Roswell was a small town near Colorado Springs, Colorado. It was known for its coal mines and as a busy train hub in the 1800s. Today, Roswell is part of Colorado Springs. You can find its old location around where Fillmore Street and North Nevada Avenue meet.

History of Roswell

How Roswell Started

The town of Roswell was built in 1889. It was about 2.5 miles north of Colorado Springs. The town got its name from Governor Roswell P. Flower of New York. He thought Colorado Springs had a wonderful climate. He believed it was very good for people who were sick with tuberculosis.

Roswell's Busy Railroads

By 1899, Governor Flower was investing in mining. He also invested in the Manitou and Pike's Peak Railway. Roswell was located right where two big railroads met. These were the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad and the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad. The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad reached the area around 1875. In 1889, Roswell had a large train yard for the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad.

Roswell also had a strong stone building called a Round House. This was where train engines were stored and repaired. There was also a bridge for the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway over the other tracks.

Life in Roswell

In 1900, about 448 people lived in Roswell. By 1902, it was a "considerable settlement." This means it was a well-known place. Roswell had its own school and a church. There was also the Roswell Hotel by 1903.

Roswell Park was a large area of 26 acres. It had a special track for horse races. It also had a ballpark where people could play games.

Roswell's Later Years

By 1910, the number of people living in Roswell was 426. By 1911, the population had dropped to 250 people. By 1919, Roswell became a place where coal was moved from mines. Coal from the Pikeview mine and the Keystone mine was brought here. In the 1940s, the old horse race track in Roswell was used for car races.