History Colorado

Have you heard about the journey of Domínguez and Escalante? ✝️
In 1776, two Franciscan priests set out from Santa Fe into territory unknown, lands claimed by Spain but controlled by the Tribes who called it home.

With Indigenous guides and the help of Native tribes, the Padres and their party of twelve navigated harsh terrain, mapped vital trade routes, and documented Native cultures that had thrived in the region for centuries before Europeans arrived.

The rugged terrain they traversed—marked by jagged mountains, deep canyons, wild rivers, and arid deserts—became part of the Old Spanish Trail, a key trade route connecting the Rockies to the Pacific. And the journal Escalante kept during the journey shaped generations of thought about what became the American West.

Learn more in "Expedition 1776: The Journey of Domínguez & Escalante." Exhibition now on view at the History Colorado Center!

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In recognition of America's 250 - Colorado's 150 Anniversary

Now on view for a very limited time! ⌛ Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation 📜

For the first time ever, these extraordinary founding documents are traveling together outside of Washington, D.C., offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the history that shaped the United States.

Stand face-to-face with an original 1823 engraving of the Declaration of Independence, a rare draft printing of the Constitution, and the Senate’s markup of what became the Bill of Rights. After this exhibition, these historic documents are not expected to be publicly displayed together again for another 40 to 50 years.

On display now through June 14 at the History Colorado Center.

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Thanks to our partners and sponsors:
US National Archives
The Boeing Company
National Archives Foundation
America 250 - Colorado 150 Commemoration
Koelbel Communities