Colorado's Sesquicentennial
August 1, 2026 marks 150 years since the Colorado Territory was officially made into a state. Explore the people, places, and events that have shaped the “Centennial State” and learn more about colorful Colorado!
Celebrate Colorado’s sesquicentennial with these and many other library resources.
Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection
Explore more than 1.5 million digitized pages, representing 335+ individual newspaper titles published in Colorado from 1859 to 1923. This means you can follow along with the discussions around Colorado statehood. (Due to copyright restrictions, CHNC does not generally include newspapers published after 1923.) Learn more with our databases and research services.
Curiosity Pass
Check out free passes to various museums along the front range and explore Colorado history. From the Colorado Railroad Museum and the Greeley History Museum to the Black American West Museum & Heritage Center, there are myriad discoveries waiting for you.
Check Out Colorado State Parks
Get to know Colorado by walking through its beautiful state parks. The Library’s Gadgets & Things Collection offers free Colorado State Parks passes that allow free entry for up to seven days. The passes come with a family activity pouch that includes information on Colorado wildlife, trees, wildflowers, and much more.
Colorado Historical Society
Check the books below and other materials published by the Colorado Historical Society. Search the online catalog for availability or place a hold. Some titles are in-library use only or are available through the Archive at Fort Collins Museum of Discovery.
Don’t have time for a read this month? Enjoy some Colorado fun facts:
- Colorado is the 8th largest state by area and was the 38th state to join the Union.
- The first Stegosaurus fossil was found in Colorado in 1876.
- The highest peak in Colorado is Mount Elbert at 14,433 feet.
- Mesa Verde National Park near Cortez is an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Colorado’s state bird is the lark bunting; the state flower is the white and lavender columbine.
