Nestled in the plains of Colorado, Peetz is a ghost town that offers a glimpse into the state’s rich history. This once-bustling community was home to over 20 businesses, a high school, and even had its own power and light company. However, Peetz stands abandoned today, with only a few retired farmers as full-time residents. Despite its deserted nature, Peetz holds a certain charm and allure for history buffs and ghost town enthusiasts alike.
In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history of Peetz and explore the remnants of its past that still remain today. We will start by discussing the location and accessibility of Peetz, which is crucial for those planning to visit the ghost town.
We will then move on to the history of Peetz, including its land use and the reasons why it became abandoned. Finally, we will discuss the current state of Peetz and the recreational activities visitors can engage in when they visit this Colorado ghost town.
Key Takeaways
- Peetz was once a thriving community with over 20 businesses and its own power and light company, but it eventually became a ghost town due to the decline of agriculture and the rise of urbanization.
- Peetz can be accessed year-round by traveling east on US Hwy. 6 for 9 miles, then north on State Hwy. 113 for 16 miles, and visitors can explore the town’s abandoned business district and visit the Peetz School, post office, gas station, and bar.
- Pheasant hunting in the fall is a popular recreational activity in the area, and Peetz has hosted the annual Colorado Pheasant Hunting Championship.
- Peetz’s history and land use provide insight into the development and growth of rural communities in Colorado, but its current state is that of a ghost town with limited recreational offerings and a dwindling population.
Location and Accessibility
Peetz, a Colorado ghost town originally used for cattle grazing, is located in the northeastern part of the state and can be accessed year-round by traveling east on US Hwy. 6 for 9 miles, then north on State Hwy. 113 for 16 miles. Its remote location adds to its allure as a historical site waiting to be explored. However, the distance from major cities and the lack of public transportation may be considered a disadvantage for some visitors.
To explore Peetz, visitors can start by driving through the town’s abandoned business district to glimpse the remaining structures that once housed over 20 establishments. The Peetz School, which is still in operation, and the post office, gas station, and bar are also worth a visit.
For those interested in history, the Peetz Gazette, one of the finest newspapers in the state, published in 1916, provides a glimpse into the town’s past. Visitors can also go pheasant hunting in the fall or stop by the nearby Cabela’s Sporting Goods Headquarters in Sidney, Nebraska, located just 15 miles north of Peetz.
History and Land Use
The history of the town formerly known as Mercer and its land use can provide insight into the development and growth of rural communities in Colorado.
Peetz was initially used for cattle grazing, but it was A. G. Sherwin who built a huge ranch in the area by purchasing land from the railroad at $1.25 an acre. This marked the beginning of agricultural development in the town, eventually leading to over 20 establishments ranging from pool halls to banks and even a movie theater.
Peetz was officially incorporated on May 9, 1917, becoming a thriving community with its own power and light company. The high school in Peetz was the largest in Logan County except for Sterling, and the town even had its own newspaper, known as one of the finest newspapers in the state.
However, with the decline of agriculture and the rise of urbanization, Peetz eventually became a ghost town with a few full-time retired farmers as its only residents. Today, the abandoned buildings serve as a reminder of the town’s former glory and contribution to the development of rural communities in Colorado.
Current State and Recreation
Pheasant hunting in the fall is a popular recreational activity in the area, with an estimated 250,000 pheasants harvested annually in northeast Colorado. Peetz’s location in a farming community makes it an ideal spot for hunting, and the town has even hosted the annual Colorado Pheasant Hunting Championship.
However, aside from hunting, Peetz’s recreational offerings are limited. The town’s business district is mostly vacant, with abandoned buildings lining the streets. This lack of amenities means that most visitors to the area are day-trippers, coming to hunt or explore the town’s history before heading back to larger nearby cities like Sidney, Nebraska.
Despite the lack of tourism, Peetz still has a small but dedicated local community. The town’s school is still operating, and a few retired farmers call the area home. Additionally, the town has a post office, gas station, and bar, which serve as gathering places for locals.
However, the town’s isolation and lack of economic opportunities mean its population has dwindled over the years. Today, only a fraction of the town’s once-thriving community remains, and the abandoned buildings remind Peetz’s past as a bustling agricultural hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the decline in population and businesses in Peetz?
The decline in population and businesses in Peetz, Colorado can be attributed to multiple factors, including drought impact on ranching and agriculture, economic challenges, and the decline of the railroad industry.
Are there any plans to revitalize the town or attract new residents?
Plans for revitalization and attracting new residents to Peetz have been discussed, with community involvement being a key factor. However, specific details and timelines for implementation have not been publicly announced.
What is the cultural or artistic scene like in Peetz?
Peetz, Colorado lacks a discernible artistic or cultural scene. The town’s focus seems to revolve around hunting and local traditions. There are no known artistic events or venues in the area.
Are there any unique or notable landmarks or attractions in the town?
Peetz features historic buildings and natural surroundings as notable landmarks. The town had over 20 establishments, including a newspaper and power and light company. Abandoned buildings now dot the business district.
What is the demographic makeup of the current population in Peetz?
The demographic makeup of the current population in Peetz is unclear, but it is known that the town has few full-time retired farmers. No information is available on the town’s racial diversity or economic stability.
