Tarryall, Colorado, Park County is a fascinating ghost town that once thrived during the Gold Rush era but now stands as a reminder of the area’s rich history. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Park County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 39.1858° N, 105.4594° W
Elevation: 8,875 feet
Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
Established: 1859
Disestablished: Not available
Comments: Tarryall was established during the Colorado Gold Rush in 1859 when prospectors discovered gold in Tarryall Creek. The town quickly grew as miners flocked to the area hoping to make it rich. It became known for its strict rules and enforcement by the “Tarryall Men,” who aimed to keep order among the influx of miners.
The town was initially prosperous, but disputes over mining claims and a lack of significant gold deposits led to its decline.
Remains: Today, only a few remnants of Tarryall exist, including the foundations of old buildings and some scattered mining equipment. These remains provide a glimpse into the town’s bustling past and are a point of interest for history enthusiasts and ghost town explorers.
The town was founded in 1859 during the Colorado Gold Rush after placer gold was discovered in Tarryall Creek. The “Tarryall diggings” and other discoveries prompted a flood of prospectors into South Park via Ute Pass and Kenosha Pass.
Most newly arriving miners found that earlier arrivals had ultimately claimed all available land for mining along Tarryall Creek, and much resentment ensued. It was thought that the earlier miners had claimed much more land than a man could reasonably work, and latecomers called Tarryall “Grab All.”
Another mining town founded not far away on the Middle Fork of the South Platte River was named Fairplay as a dig at Tarryall.
Current Status: Tarryall is a ghost town with no permanent residents and minimal remaining structures. It is located within the boundaries of Pike National Forest, making it accessible to visitors who wish to explore the area.
Remarks: Tarryall poignantly reminds us of the transient nature of boomtowns during the Gold Rush era. While it was once a place of hope and opportunity, it now offers a quiet reflection on the challenges faced by those who sought fortune in the rugged landscape of Colorado.
The town’s remains and picturesque setting make it a compelling destination for those interested in the history of the American West.
A US post office opened in Tarryall on 4 January 1860. The town very briefly served as the county seat of Park County from the county’s organization on 1 November 1861 until the county seat was moved to Buckskin Joe (now also a ghost town) on 7 January 1862.
