Laserfiche WebLink
<br />I <br />., <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br /> <br />, <br /> <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br /> <br />, <br /> <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br /> <br />1628 <br /> <br /> <br />ECONOMIC HISTORY OF THE REGION <br /> <br />Colorado Springs was founded in 1871 by <br />General William Palmer who recognized <br />the attractiveness of the area's scenic <br />topography and healthful climate. With a <br />somewhat sluggish economy in the early <br />years, the City became noted for learning <br />and cultural activities and heaUh spa <br />facilities for respiratory ailments <br />centered around the Region's semi-arid <br />climate. Following mineral discoveries at <br />Leadville and Cripple Creek, the <br />complexion of the local economy began to <br />change even though these mining areas <br />were somewhat removed from the <br />immediate area. Colorado Springs <br />became an important shipping point for <br />supplies to support the mining operations <br />in the mountains. Railroads began to add <br />strength to the economy during this era <br /> <br />and as more people passed through the <br />Pikes Peak Region, its reputation for <br />beauty became well known. In the 1880s <br />the original Antlers Hotel, the Broadmoor <br />Hotel and the Cog Railway to the top of <br />Pikes Peak were built to accommodate <br />tourists coming to the Region. <br /> <br />By World War I, the mining industry had <br />declined and the City's economic and <br />population growth had stabilized. <br />Tourism remained active during the next <br />two decades as visitors returned to take <br />advantage of the area's recreational <br />facilities and natural amenities. <br /> <br />The most significant economic impact on <br />the Region occurred in 1942-1943 when <br />Fort Carson and Ent Air Force Base were <br />established. Fort Corson originally served <br />as both a prisoner-of-war camp and a <br /> <br />34 <br />