Fairplay, Colorado, Park County is an engaging ghost town in the heart of Colorado’s high country. Once a bustling hub for miners seeking fortune amid the Rockies, it now whispers stories of a bygone era. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Park County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 39.2233° N, 105.9931° W
Elevation: 9,953 feet (3,034 meters)
Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
Established: 1859
Disestablished: Not available
Comments: Fairplay was established during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush in 1859, as prospectors flooded the area. Due to its proximity to rich gold deposits, it quickly became a significant mining settlement.
Fairplay’s name promised miners fair treatment, unlike other claims where disputes and monopolies were common. The town thrived on gold mining and was an economic center in the region at its height.
Remains: Today, Fairplay is not entirely abandoned; it retains a small population. However, the area is home to South Park City, an open-air museum that preserves the town’s historical essence.
This museum features over 40 historic buildings and 60,000 artifacts that recreate a mining town of the late 19th century, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
Current Status: Fairplay is now a statutory town with about 700 residents. While not a ghost town in the traditional sense, its historical significance and preserved sites make it a point of interest for those exploring Colorado’s mining history.
Remarks: Though Fairplay is still inhabited, its historical roots and preserved structures make it an engaging destination for history enthusiasts and those yearning to explore the Wild West.
The town’s commitment to preserving its heritage allows visitors to step back in time and experience the rugged life of early miners, providing an enduring legacy of Colorado’s gold rush era.
