Historic Town of Red Rock

Establishment and Early Days

Red Rock, nestled in a valley surrounded by distinctive red sandstone formations, was established in 1867 by a group of emigrants originally bound for California. Led by Jeremiah and Martha Stonewall, the party of twenty-three settlers faced a harsh winter crossing through the mountains and became disoriented after losing their trail guide to fever. Upon discovering the sheltered valley with its natural springs and abundant game, the weary travelers decided to make it their permanent home rather than continuing their perilous journey.

The settlement was initially called "Stonewall's Rest" but was renamed "Red Rock" in 1869 when the first post office was established, referencing the dramatic geological features that defined the landscape. The early years were marked by cooperation with local indigenous peoples, primarily the Arapaho, with whom they established trading relationships that proved vital to the settlement's survival.

Economic Development

Red Rock's economy initially centered around subsistence farming and hunting, but quickly diversified with the discovery of silver in nearby Cougar Mountain in 1872. The "Red Rock Silver Rush" brought an influx of prospectors, merchants, and opportunists, swelling the town's population from fewer than one hundred to nearly two thousand within eighteen months.

Unlike many boom-and-bust mining towns of the era, Red Rock's economy remained relatively stable due to the development of cattle ranching in the surrounding grasslands. The Red Rock Cattle Company, founded by former prospector Thomas Blackburn in 1876, became the region's largest employer and helped the town weather the silver depletion of the early 1880s.

Notable Residents

Sheriff Jackson "Jack" Tolliver (1835-1889)

Sheriff Tolliver became Red Rock's longest-serving lawman, maintaining order from 1873 until his death. A former Union cavalry officer with a reputation for fairness, Tolliver was known for preferring negotiation over gunplay—unusual for the era. His most famous achievement was peacefully ending the "Red Rock Mine Strike" of 1879 without bloodshed, a rare outcome for labor disputes of the period. Tolliver died defending the town bank from the notorious Blackwell Gang, successfully preventing the robbery but sustaining fatal wounds.

Mei-Lin Chen (1860-1923)

Mei-Lin Chen arrived in Red Rock in 1882 as a cook for the railroad workers extending the Great Western line to the town. Recognizing opportunity, Chen opened Red Rock's first restaurant, "The Golden Mountain," which became a social hub for the diverse community. Despite facing discrimination, Chen became a respected business leader and eventually opened Red Rock's first hotel in 1890. Her meticulous business records, preserved by the historical society, provide valuable insights into daily life and commerce in late 19th century Red Rock.

Dr. Eleanor "Nellie" Washburn (1842-1905)

Dr. Washburn arrived in Red Rock in 1870 as one of the few female physicians in the western territories. Initially met with skepticism, Dr. Washburn earned the town's respect during a scarlet fever outbreak in 1871, when she worked tirelessly to treat the afflicted. She established Red Rock's first proper medical clinic in 1873 and later became known for her research into indigenous medicinal plants, publishing several papers that gained attention in eastern medical journals. Dr. Washburn never married but adopted three orphaned children and was a vocal advocate for women's education.

Significant Events

Legacy

Unlike many western towns that faded with the frontier, Red Rock adapted and endured. While never becoming a major city, it maintained its distinct character and community spirit through the challenges of industrialization, two world wars, and economic transformations. Today, visitors to Red Rock can still walk the original main street, view many preserved 19th century buildings, and experience living history demonstrations that celebrate the town's rich multicultural heritage and pioneering spirit.