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Promoting Telluride in the 1980s

This broadside advertising for Telluride, Colorado, serves as a detailed map and directory. It features a comprehensive layout of the town, highlighting various businesses, services, and points of interest, aimed at both residents and visitors.

During the mid-1980s, Telluride was experiencing a resurgence in popularity as both a historic mining town and a burgeoning resort destination.  Local landowners worked together to open a ski resort, which with time became a multi-season destination.  The region’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities, including skiing and hiking, attracted a diverse array of tourists. This period marked a significant phase of development and investment in local businesses and infrastructure to support the growing tourism industry. The broadside reflects the vibrant commercial activity and community engagement of Telluride during this transformative period.

Mining Era (1870s - Early 20th Century): Telluride’s history is deeply rooted in the mining boom of the late 19th century. Founded in 1878 and originally named Columbia, the town was renamed Telluride in 1887, after the tellurium minerals found in the area, though the name also evokes the rich gold and silver deposits that drew prospectors to the region. The discovery of significant ore deposits in the San Juan Mountains led to a mining rush, with the town becoming a thriving hub for miners and related businesses. By the late 1800s, Telluride boasted numerous mines, mills, and a growing population, marking its place as one of Colorado’s key mining towns.

Decline and Transition (Early to Mid-20th Century): The early 20th century saw a decline in mining activity due to the depletion of easily accessible ore and fluctuating metal prices. By the 1950s, Telluride’s population had dwindled, and many of the once-booming mines were abandoned. The town faced economic challenges, with its future uncertain. However, its rich history and stunning natural landscape kept it from fading into obscurity entirely.

Resurgence as a Ski Resort (1960s - 1990s): The 1960s marked the beginning of a new chapter for Telluride. Visionary developers saw the potential for transforming the town into a ski resort. In 1972, the Telluride Ski Resort opened, leveraging the region’s excellent snow conditions and dramatic terrain. This development initiated a period of revitalization, attracting outdoor enthusiasts, investors, and new residents. The establishment of the ski resort brought infrastructure improvements and renewed economic activity, positioning Telluride as a premier destination for winter sports.