Black Hawk, Colorado, Gilpin County is a fascinating ghost town nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its rich history as a mining boomtown during the Colorado Gold Rush, Black Hawk now stands as a confirmation to the past glory days of gold mining. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Gilpin County
Zip Code: 80422
Latitude / Longitude: 39.8005° N, 105.4928° W
Elevation: 8,537 feet (2,602 meters)
Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MST/MDT)
Established: 1859
Disestablished: Not available
Comments: Black Hawk was one of the first towns established during the Colorado Gold Rush, initially thriving due to its proximity to Gregory Gulch, where gold was first discovered. A bustling community with mills and mines attracted a diverse population seeking fortune.
In May 1859, John H. Gregory discovered gold in his hometown’s Gregory Gulch, bringing thousands to this area. Prospectors and miners combed hillsides for more veins, which led to hard rock mining booms followed by busts.
They exhausted shallow parts containing free gold, with amalgamation mills unable to recover anything from deeper sulfide ores like those found at Bobtail Lode. A few years later, people started coming back when silver was discovered nearby, but it wasn’t until 1880 that we saw another incredibly prosperous year, thanks largely to increased demand.
Remains: Today, Black Hawk is not completely abandoned; it has transformed into a historic city with restored buildings that maintain the architectural essence of its mining past. Some of the original structures remain, providing a glimpse into the 19th-century life of a mining town.
Current Status: Black Hawk has reinvented itself as a destination for tourism and gaming. It is one of the few places in Colorado where casino gambling is legal, attracting visitors year-round. Despite its modern attractions, the town preserves its historical roots through museums and heritage sites.
Remarks: Black Hawk offers a unique blend of history and entertainment, making it a popular spot for those interested in the Old West and the Colorado mining history. Its transformation from a ghost town to a gaming hub confirms the town’s resilience and ability to adapt to changing times while preserving its historical significance.
Since casinos opened in both towns in 1991, the town of Black Hawk has been in heated competition for gambling revenue with its neighbor, Central City. Development down Clear Creek from the historic center lining State Highway 119 has flourished as well, making it an attractive destination for visitors looking to spend money on a fun day trip or evening out.
The casinos in Blackhawk are an attraction for gamblers who pass through Denver before coming to Central City.
As a result, they’ve realized much higher revenue than what is seen at the more famous casino next door – and with less restrictive zoning codes also comes another opportunity: buildings being allowed closer together so that noise isn’t as bad or restricted development potential not just because of height but also traffic flow since there’s no limit on how high things can go.
