Kiowa, Colorado, is a charming town with a population of 725 as of the 2020 United States Census and serves as the county seat of Elbert County, Colorado.
In This Article
TL;DR
- Kiowa's unique position is that of a blend of history and modernity within Colorado.
- The significance of Kiowa in the broader context of Colorado's development.
- The role of Kiowa as a community hub in the Eastern Plains.
Historical Significance of Kiowa
Settled in 1859, Kiowa was originally named “Wendling” after an early settler. It was called “Middle Kiowa” from the 1860s until 1912 when it was incorporated and the word “Middle” was dropped. The town was named after the Kiowa Indians, a Native American tribe that had lived in the region before European settlement.
Kiowa became the county seat of Elbert County in 1874. Throughout the 20th century, Kiowa grew in population and reached its peak in the 1950s, with large schools, towns, and plenty of commerce moving along the train lines and highways.
Geography and Climate
Located in western Elbert County at 39°20_39″N 104°27_46″W, Kiowa sits on the east side of Kiowa Creek, a north-flowing tributary of the South Platte River. The town has a total area of 0.89 square miles (2.3 km_), all of it land.
Kiowa’s climate is typical of the Eastern Plains, with hot summers and cold winters. The weather allows for a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, from hiking and fishing in the summer to cross-country skiing in the winter.
Economy and Employment
Kiowa’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with many citizens working in farming and ranching. The town also has a growing number of small businesses, including restaurants, shops, and service providers.
The closure of the locally-owned bank in 1983 began a decline in the town’s economy, which continued as absentee landowners bought thousands of acres put into the government’s Conservation Reserve Program in the late 1980s.
Education and Community Services
Kiowa is home to several schools, including Kiowa Elementary School and Kiowa High School. The town also has a public library and a community center that offers various programs and services for citizens.
The Kiowa County Department of Social Services and the County Economic Development Foundation are located in the historic Nipp-Bransgrove Building, which was rehabilitated in 2000.
Culture and Lifestyle
Kiowa has a strong sense of community, with many events and traditions that bring residents together. The town hosts an annual Fourth of July celebration, complete with a parade, fireworks, and community barbecue.
The Crow-Luther Cultural Events Center, currently under development, aims to serve as an arts venue and interpretive center for the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site. The town also has several parks and recreational areas, including the Kiowa Creek Trail.
Infrastructure and Transportation
Kiowa is located along Colorado State Highway 86, which connects the town to larger cities like Castle Rock and Limon. The town has a small airport, primarily used for private and agricultural purposes.
In recent years, Kiowa has been working on improving its infrastructure, including upgrades to its water and sewer systems. The community has also been awarded a grant from the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program to develop recreational trails along various heritage and historic resources.
Explore Colorado: Kiowa’s Place in the State
Kiowa’s unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation makes it an attractive destination for those looking to explore Colorado’s Eastern Plains. The town’s proximity to the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site and its growing arts and cultural scene contribute to its appeal.
Compared to other towns in Colorado, Kiowa offers a more laid-back and rural lifestyle, with a strong sense of community and a connection to the land. Its location along Highway 86 makes it an accessible stop for those traveling between the Front Range and the Eastern Plains.
FAQ
What are the main historical landmarks in Kiowa?
The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, located near Kiowa, commemorates the tragic events of November 1864 and serves as an important reminder of the region’s history.
How does the climate in Kiowa affect its outdoor activities?
Kiowa’s climate, with hot summers and cold winters, allows for a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, from hiking and fishing in the summer to cross-country skiing in the winter.
What are the major industries contributing to Kiowa’s economy?
Agriculture, including farming and ranching, is the primary industry in Kiowa. The town also has a growing number of small businesses, such as restaurants, shops, and service providers.
Can you describe the cultural events and traditions unique to Kiowa?
Kiowa hosts an annual Fourth of July celebration, complete with a parade, fireworks, and community barbecue. The town also has a strong sense of community, with many events and traditions that bring residents together.
What infrastructure developments are planned for Kiowa’s future?
Kiowa has been working on improving its infrastructure, including upgrades to its water and sewer systems. The community has also been awarded a grant to develop recreational trails along various heritage and historic resources.
