The Antique Capitol of Colorado: Florence, Colorado
By Teila, 18th May 2014 | Follow this author
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Posted in WikinutTravelNorth AmericaUnited StatesColorado
If you are in the mood for a trip back in time, the vendors in Florence, Colorado would like to invite you to come spend a day with them. Nothing beats fresh air and a town filled with friendly smiles and collectibles galore.
- Nestled in the Foothills
- An Area Rich in History
- Finding Its Niche
- An Oasis of Antiques and Art
- A Great Place to Visit
Nestled in the Foothills
Florence, Colorado is located in Fremont County just an hour south of Colorado Springs and 45 minutes away from Pueblo, Colorado. A small yet effervescent community nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains astride the Arkansas River.
It was once home to the Arapahoe and Sioux Ute Indians. It’s a beautiful town with a whole lota history.
An Area Rich in History
In 1874, historians tell us that the town consisted of just an apple orchard, a couple of stores, and a small railroad depot.
Then in 1881 oil was discovered and the little town boomed as more and more oil wells were drilled and fields developed.
Senator James A. McCandless incorporated the City of Florence In 1887 and named the town after his youngest daughter.
The town quickly grew and by 1890, they boasted 50 oil producing wells. A lot has happened since the town was officially incorporated in 1887, yet many of the town's original historic buildings and homes still remain.
Finding Its Niche
While many towns struggle to find their niche, Florence has combined its historical past with the new present and has become the Capitol of Antiques & Collectibles.
The town has an array of vendors and shops all devoted to the arts and antiques.
It’s become an antique-lover's delight. The town features 14 antique shops and co-ops and has become a favorite weekend destination for those looking to do some treasure hunting.
An Oasis of Antiques and Art
Florence has a small town, down-to-earth family vibe to it. With over 15 antique shops, five art galleries, almost a dozen restaurants and numerous specialty shops, modern-day treasure hunters will love this oasis of antiques and art.
Every nook and cranny in these antique stores is filled with treasures, from vintage toys to antique lamps, dishes and books.
The stores all have their own unique personality and the vendors are all very hospitable. Florence's easily accessible downtown becomes a pedestrian paradise and there are plenty of free parking spaces.
A Great Place to Visit
It is a great place to shop, stay and visit, centrally located near the Royal Gorge Bridge (the world’s highest suspension bridge) and the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Comments
18th May 2014 (#)
Sounds like an interesting place to spend a day or two. Would make a good destination for a day trip. Thanks for the brief travel back in time.
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18th May 2014 (#)
Thanks for this informative share, Teila. Nice to know there is another Florence to a more famous one in Italy - siva
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18th May 2014 (#)
I do not really buy lots of antiques but I really enjoy looking at them. My son is considering moving to Colorado so I may visit one day.
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23rd May 2014 (#)
Great travel article!
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9th Jul 2014 (#)
Lived in Colorado Springs for five years and drove past Florence on my way to Westcliffe a few times a year. Now I'm sorry I never stopped! Thanks!
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