Telluride has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a mining town, but we are so proud of our history and origins that we try to preserve all the memories in so many ways. From the historical buildings that may not have the same purpose today as they did when they originally opened to the museum that tells our story so eloquently, there is always something that reminds us of the past even as we stride confidently into the future, especially in our Accommodations in Telluride historical rentals.
They tell a story of the history of Telluride while offering all the modern conveniences that make life easier, and the juxtaposition of the two make these rentals some of our most popular. This guide to a historical journey to Telluride will include a peek into our rentals and an in-depth glimpse into what makes our mountain town what it is today!
The Telluride Historic District
You don’t have to go far to catch sight of the past in Telluride, especially as our Historic District takes up most of what used to be the original town. Located in the downtown area, of course, the buildings are a testament to the quality workmanship that was common during the Victorian era, and many of the shops, restaurants, and businesses that are operated from within the buildings will make you feel as if you have stepped back into time.
The Lone Tree Cemetery, located at 100 E Columbia Avenue, is a part of the Historic District as well, serving as the final resting place to many Telluride settlers, and the burials that occurred there are also the first recorded burials in the history of Telluride, CO, dating back to the latter part of the mid-1800s. Tours of the Lone Tree Cemetery can be taken on certain days in October, telling the story of how our people lived and died while making Telluride the unique town it is today.
Tomboy Mine
Telluride was a booming silver mining town in the 1880s, and although the Tomboy Mine closed down almost a century ago, you can still visit the ghost town that was once the operations center of the mine. Four-wheel drive is needed to reach the site, or you can hike to the top, but be prepared for a steep ascent, one that will be worth all the effort as the views of Telluride are breathtaking from the old Tomboy Mine.
A tunnel carved into the mountain still exists today. It was once called the Social Tunnel, as it is where miners would meet single women. About a mile or so after you have passed through the tunnel, you will come across an abandoned shack, painted a faded green; it is the former home of Whispering Jim, one of the last independent miners in Telluride.
As you continue your journey to the Tomboy Mine, you will see the entrance to Whispering Jim’s mine (the Shamrock), the remains of the structures that made up the business end of the operation, and what is left of the ghost town that Tomboy became.
The Telluride Historical Museum, 201 W Gregory Avenue
As we head back into the town of Telluride, we would be remiss if we didn’t suggest a stop at the Telluride Historical Museum, which is located inside what was once our town’s hospital for the miners who lived and worked here. The museum features a permanent exhibition which explores not just the days of mining, but also the lives of the original residents, the native Ute people who lived here about 1000 years before being pushed out during the gold and silver rush in the 1800s. Closed from April through June and then again from October through December, the museum offers tours that will fascinate everyone who takes part.
Our Accommodations in Telluride Historic Retreats
There are many more historical spots in town, including the beautiful Sheridan Opera House and the New Sheridan Hotel, but if you want to experience the history of Telluride, CO yourself, choosing our town of Telluride rentals that are offered in some of the town’s oldest buildings is how you can do so. These spaces are designed to uphold modern standards, including fully equipped kitchens, state of the art televisions, and high-speed internet, while also celebrating the history of the spaces.
Original wood floors, molding, even the doors through which many, many people have entered the spaces, all add to the charm and beauty of your vacation experience. Many properties retain their historical vibe on the outside, but when you step inside, you may be surrounded by spaces that are modern and bright but filled with the echoes of the past.
Reserve Your Favorite Accommodations in Telluride Historic Haven Today
Honoring the history of Telluride while paying respect to the modern conveniences of today, our Accommodations in Telluride vacation rentals in Telluride will be an integral part of your vacation experience. Contact us today to start your historical journey to Telluride!
