Society of Colorado Pioneers facts for kids
The Society of Colorado Pioneers was an important group started in 1872. Its main goal was to honor and help the very first settlers in Colorado. These were the people who arrived in the area before it became a state.
At first, only men could be full members of the Society. Later, a special group for women was created, and then one for the sons of pioneers. In 1943, the original Society joined with the women's group. They then became known as the "Pioneer Men and Women of Colorado."
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Who Could Join the Pioneers?
The Society of Colorado Pioneers was created to recognize people who settled in Colorado before 1861. This was a very early time for the region.
Early Settlers: True Pioneers
People who arrived by 1858 were considered the true pioneers. They came to a wild, undeveloped land. They used their own strength, energy, and bravery to start a new way of life.
In 1859 and 1860, thousands more people began to arrive. They settled in the mountains, mining camps, or valleys. After 1860, trails were made, and signs of towns began to appear. These included newspapers, schools, churches, and businesses.
History of the Pioneer Groups
Several groups were formed over time to support Colorado's pioneers.
The Society of Colorado Pioneers
The original Society of Colorado Pioneers was founded by men. They wanted to honor and help pioneers who arrived before 1861. At that time, Colorado was still part of the Kansas territory. The Society officially started on January 16, 1872. It became a formal organization on July 14, 1884.
The Pioneer Women
In September 1889, a women's group was formed. It was called the Woman's Auxiliary. They helped the main Society with its goal of assisting pioneers who needed help. This group started with 14 members. By 1894, it had grown to 150 members and became its own official organization. In 1934, it was renamed the Pioneer Women of Colorado.
The Society of Sons of Colorado
The sons of pioneers could also become members starting in 1906. However, they could not hold important leadership positions in the main Society at first. Because of these rules, the "Society of Sons of Colorado" was created in 1906. This group even published a monthly magazine called "The Trail." By 1921, the rules changed, and sons of pioneers could hold any position in the original Society of Colorado.
Joining Forces: Pioneer Men and Women
In February 1943, the original Society decided to combine with the Pioneer Women of Colorado. The new combined organization was named The Pioneer Men and Women of Colorado. The last meeting of the old Society of Colorado Pioneers was held on March 27, 1943.
