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HOTCHKISS, COLORADO
NESTLES along the North Fork of the Gunnison River.
Nearby the West Elks ascend in a magnificent slope of snow, spruce,
rock, and pine. The coal train winds its way towards Delta past herds
of Hereford and Angus cattle. Orchards scatter sunlight from their
branches full of fruit. Deer and elk graze in the West Elks.
Hotchkiss was settled in the beginning of the 20th century by ranchers, farmers, and later, miners. Hard anthracite coal, best used in power plants for its long, high-burning quality, has long been a product of the area. Tourism, hunting, fishing and recreation, are now adding to the original livelihoods. Many activities today, such as the Annual Sheep Camp Stock Dog Trials, held in May, reflect the area’s agricultural roots.
Hotchkiss was settled in the beginning of the 20th century by ranchers, farmers, and later, miners. Hard anthracite coal, best used in power plants for its long, high-burning quality, has long been a product of the area. Tourism, hunting, fishing and recreation, are now adding to the original livelihoods. Many activities today, such as the Annual Sheep Camp Stock Dog Trials, held in May, reflect the area’s agricultural roots.
For the culturally
inclined, Creamery Art Center offers art shows,
demonstrations, and classes, high-lighting members of a contingency of
83 area artists in the remodeled two-story creamery building. The
Magpie provides
music, as well as art, in its
new community area and shop.
The Sunday Farmers Market combines locally grown produce with music, crafts, and excitement along the main street all summer. In August, as the fruit ripens, harvest begins. The annual Delta County Fair is held at the Delta County Fairgrounds in Hotchkiss. The best pies, livestock, and paintings are among county fair displays, with the agricultural way of life foremost.
With all this interwoven history, industry, and activity, Hotchkiss shines. Friendly people make it enjoyable for visitors. They may stand a little in awe of the Border Collie as it keeps the sheep in line, the farmer that holds a prize-winning peach in his hand, or the potter with a fine bowl. Hotchkiss brings the present and past together. Explore all aspects. It’s a jewel in the valley.
The Sunday Farmers Market combines locally grown produce with music, crafts, and excitement along the main street all summer. In August, as the fruit ripens, harvest begins. The annual Delta County Fair is held at the Delta County Fairgrounds in Hotchkiss. The best pies, livestock, and paintings are among county fair displays, with the agricultural way of life foremost.
With all this interwoven history, industry, and activity, Hotchkiss shines. Friendly people make it enjoyable for visitors. They may stand a little in awe of the Border Collie as it keeps the sheep in line, the farmer that holds a prize-winning peach in his hand, or the potter with a fine bowl. Hotchkiss brings the present and past together. Explore all aspects. It’s a jewel in the valley.
For information on Hotchkiss, visit the Chamber website at www.hotchkisschamber.com/index.html.
photo
© Kathryn Retzler