Franceville, Colorado is a ghost town located in El Paso County. Once a vibrant settlement, today it stands as a silent reminder of the past, whispering stories of its once-bustling life to those who visit. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: El Paso
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 38.7425° N, 104.6° W
Elevation: Approximately 6,184 feet (1,885 meters)
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST)
Established: 1890
Disestablished: Not available
Comments: Franceville was set up as a coal mining town in the late 19th century. It was part of the bustling coal industry that powered the growth of surrounding areas. The town was named after a prominent local figure, and it served as a hub for miners and their families.
The coal extracted here was significant in fueling the locomotives and industries of the time, contributing to the region’s economic development.
Remains: Very little remains of Franceville today. The townsite is largely overgrown, with the remnants of old foundations and some scattered artifacts. The mines have long since been closed, and much of the area has returned to nature. Some historical markers may be found, indicating the town’s former location.
Current Status: Franceville is a ghost town, with no active residents or businesses. The land is primarily used for agricultural purposes or left to natural reforestation.
Remarks: While Franceville no longer exists as a populated town, its history is a tribute to the transient nature of mining towns during the boom-and-bust cycles of the coal industry.
The site’s quiet solitude now starkly contrasts its once industrious past, offering a unique spot for those interested in Colorado’s mining history to explore and reflect on the fleeting nature of human settlements.
