Colorado Springs, CO
July 19, 2014
Old Colorado City is a national historic district in Colorado Springs. It was founded in 1859. The name Colorado was chosen because the goldmines of the Blue River were at the headwaters of the Colorado River. At the time, this area was still part of the Kansas Territory ( Colorado was granted statehood in 1876.). Gold mine business was slow in the 1860s so commerce shifted towards serving the agricultural needs of Colorado's eastern plains. It wasn't until 1891, when a major gold strike was made in Cripple Creek, that Colorado City had its big boom. In 1917, Colorado City was incorporated into Colorado Springs.Today, turn of the century brick buildings, quaint alleyways, and a rustic territorial charm provide the setting for boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Of course it doesn't hurt to have Pikes Peak as a backdrop either.
Saturdays and Farmer's Markets just seem to go together. The Old Colorado City market has been taking place in these streets for over 20 years. I was surprised at how big it was. I read there are 24 full time vendors and numerous temporary booths each week.
Have you ever seen or tasted a purple bell pepper? I haven't!
 |
| purple bell peppers |
Local farmers provide fresh produce... sweet corn, squash, cantaloupe, beets, onions, pickling cucumbers and much more.
One thing that really appeals to me at these markets is the colors...so vivid and such a variety.
Local food vendors provide a variety of options too...pies, breads, cheese, pastas, honey and sauces. The pasta vendor was so busy, I couldn't get a picture. I have never seen so many different kinds and shapes of homemade pastas.
And this Georgia girl was tickled pink (or maybe that should be peachy) to see this sign...
Yep, got me a bag full of some sweet smelling peaches. They are juicy, ripe and quite tasty too! I enjoyed every bite of the two I have already eaten.
Our morning ended at Bon Ton's Café (in Old Colorado City) where "it is breakfast all day on a cute patio with lunch options too, daily 6 am to 3 pm."
 |
| Bon Ton's Cafe |
Our weather this past week has been a mix of sunshine, cool days, warmer days, really bad (as in severe) thunderstorms, hail, and even some strong winds. My attempt to photograph the hail bouncing off Pearl didn't turn out. There was a lot of it, but luckily it was small and we had no damage.
I was glued to the window when the winds came thru. We are under giant, humongous cotton wood trees! Thank goodness there was no "oops" then either! 
Thanks for stopping by. So until next time,
 |
| One of the many murals in Old Colorado City |
happy trails!
