What was the primary purpose of the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum?

The 1881 Colorado state capital referendum was held to allow the citizens of the U.S. state of Colorado to decide by popular vote which city would serve as the permanent state capital. This decision was mandated by the state constitution, which deferred the choice for five years after Colorado's admission to the Union in 1876.

Which cities were actively vying to become Colorado's permanent state capital in the 1881 referendum?

In the 1881 referendum, the cities actively contending to become Colorado's permanent state capital were Denver, Del Norte, Pueblo, Colorado Springs, Canon City, and Salida. These cities presented their cases to voters across the state.

What was the outcome of the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum?

The 1881 Colorado state capital referendum resulted in Denver being chosen as the permanent state capital. Denver secured this designation by winning a majority of the votes cast in the statewide election.

Why was a popular vote necessary to determine Colorado's permanent state capital in 1881?

A popular vote was necessary because the Colorado state constitution, drafted in 1876, deliberately postponed the decision on the permanent state capital. This was done to avoid opposition that might have prevented the constitution's ratification if a specific city had been named in the document.

What historical decisions preceded the 1881 referendum regarding Colorado's capital?

Following Colorado's territorial recognition in 1861, the territorial legislature initially chose Colorado City as the capital. However, due to inadequate facilities, they moved to Denver, then named Golden as the territorial capital in 1862. The legislature often met in Denver despite Golden's official status, and by 1867, they voted to move the state government to Denver, which then served as the temporary capital until the 1881 referendum.

What was Denver's status in Colorado prior to the 1881 referendum?

Denver had been the temporary territorial capital since 1861 and continued as the temporary state capital after Colorado was admitted to the Union in 1876. It was consistently the largest town in the territory and later the state.

What strategy did Denver's rivals employ in the 1881 capital referendum?

Denver's rivals hoped to capitalize on existing antipathy towards Denver to secure the capital designation for themselves. They presented their cities as alternatives, aiming to draw votes away from the larger, established city.

Which significant Colorado towns did not actively campaign to become the state capital in 1881, despite their size?

Despite being populous towns, Leadville (the second-most populous in 1880) and Silver Cliff (the third-most populous) did not mount active campaigns to become the state capital. Golden, which had previously served as the territorial capital, also did not try to win back the designation in 1881.

What factors contributed to Denver's growth and its strong position in the 1881 capital race?

Denver's growth was significantly aided by the establishment of a railroad connection eastward in 1870 by the Kansas Pacific Railroad, making it a crucial hub for transportation. By 1880, its population had surged to 35,629, far exceeding other cities, and it benefited economically from hosting the government.

How did Denver attempt to gain support from other cities during its campaign for the state capital?

Denver formed committees to promote its candidacy across the state. These committees assured other cities that Denver sought only the capital designation and, in return, pledged to support the placement of other state institutions, such as the university and the school of mines, outside of Denver.

What offer did businessman Henry Brown make to support Denver's bid for the state capital?

Businessman Henry Brown offered to donate ten acres of land near downtown Denver for the construction of a new state capitol building, contingent upon Denver being chosen as the capital. This offer was promoted as an ideal location with a scenic westward view.

What was the counter-argument regarding Henry Brown's land offer for the Denver capitol site?

Critics of Henry Brown's offer pointed out that Brown owned significant real estate in the vicinity of the proposed land donation. They suggested that his offer was motivated by the anticipated increase in value of his own properties if the state capitol were built nearby.

What were the key characteristics promoted by Colorado Springs in its bid for the state capital?

Colorado Springs, founded in 1871, touted its rapidly growing population and a more genteel atmosphere compared to Denver. Its supporters also argued that most older states had wisely located their capitals away from large commercial cities, suggesting a similar approach for Colorado.

What was Colorado Springs' population in 1880, and how did its real estate market react to its capital bid?

In 1880, Colorado Springs had a population of 4,226 inhabitants, making it the fourth most populous town in Colorado at the time. Optimism surrounding its bid led to a surge in its real estate market, with lots near the proposed capitol site selling at remarkably high prices months before the referendum.

What past claim did Pueblo have to potentially becoming the territorial capital?

Pueblo had previously come close to becoming the territorial capital. In 1874, the Colorado territorial house of representatives passed a bill to make Pueblo the capital, although this measure did not pass the territorial senate.

What was Pueblo's population in 1880, and how did its local newspaper advocate for its candidacy?

Pueblo had a population of 3,217 inhabitants in the 1880 census. The local newspaper, the Pueblo Chieftain, maintained that Pueblo was the most pleasant city for the capital and possessed ample good hotels and restaurants to accommodate legislators.

What was Canon City's primary role in 1880, and what distinction did it receive after the capital referendum?

In the 1880 census, Canon City had a population of 1,501 and primarily served as a supply point on the Arkansas River for mines and the oil field. After losing the contest for the state capital, it was awarded the territorial prison.

How did Salida campaign for the state capital, and what was its population context?

Salida, founded just the year before the 1880 census, missed that census count. Its campaign for state capital consisted mainly of editorials in its weekly newspaper, the Mountain Mail, which even printed a distorted map of Colorado showing Salida in the geographical center.

When was the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum held, and what was the total voter turnout?

The referendum to decide Colorado's permanent state capital was held on November 8, 1881. A total of 45,497 votes were counted in this election.

How did voters in specific counties, like Pueblo County, demonstrate their support for their hometowns in the referendum?

Voters in cities vying for the capital often showed strong local support. For instance, in Pueblo County, 2,039 votes were cast for Pueblo, while only 44 votes were cast for other towns, illustrating a lopsided majority for their preferred candidate.

Why was Arapahoe County's vote count for the 1881 capital referendum delayed, and what was its outcome?

Arapahoe County, which included Denver as its county seat, delayed releasing its vote count until most other counties had reported. When finally tallied, the county reported 8,839 votes for Denver, representing 99.8 percent of the 8,857 ballots counted in that county, significantly boosting Denver's total.

How did Denver secure its victory in the 1881 state capital referendum?

Denver won the referendum on the first ballot, achieving a majority of the votes cast. This decisive win meant there was no need for a runoff vote, solidifying its position as the permanent state capital.

What percentage of the total vote did Denver receive in the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum?

Denver received 66.48 percent of the total votes cast in the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum, securing a clear majority of the 45,497 votes.

Which city received the second-highest number of votes in the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum?

Pueblo received the second-highest number of votes in the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum, garnering 6,047 votes, which represented 13.29 percent of the total.

What were the vote counts for the top three contenders in the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum?

In the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum, Denver received 30,248 votes, Pueblo received 6,047 votes, and Colorado Springs received 4,790 votes. These three cities were the leading contenders in terms of vote count.

Besides the main contenders, what other cities received votes in the 1881 referendum, and what was the total for 'Other cities'?

In the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum, votes were cast for several other cities, including Lake City (46 votes), South Pueblo (42 votes), Trinidad (40 votes), Ophir (23 votes), Saguache (11 votes), Greeley (10 votes), and Silver Plume (9 votes). Additionally, 748 votes were categorized under 'Other cities', bringing the total for these minor contenders to 929 votes.

What accusations were made against Denver following the 1881 capital referendum results?

Following the referendum, Denver was widely accused of engaging in unethical practices to secure the capital designation. These accusations included buying votes and bribing newspaper editors to support its candidacy.

What was the Salida Mountain Mail editor's perspective on Denver's campaign spending and the referendum outcome?

The editor of the Salida Mountain Mail congratulated Denver on its victory but also confessed that Salida's campaign was largely a publicity stunt. He acknowledged Denver's significant spending on alleged bribery and vote-buying, yet framed it as a public service that supported newspapers and citizens across the state.

How did the Pueblo Chieftain view the consequences of Pueblo not winning the state capital designation?

The Pueblo Chieftain adopted a positive outlook, suggesting that missing out on the state capital also meant avoiding negative influences. The newspaper stated that the town had avoided the 'corrupting influences of a legislative lobby' and protected its women from 'insidious wiles of the polished member from the rural districts.'

What are some examples of towns that are subject to historical myths regarding their serious contention for the Colorado state capital?

Historical myths suggest that several towns, including Central City, Cripple Creek, Fountain, Golden, Laporte, Leadville, and Silver Cliff, were serious contenders for the Colorado state capital. These claims often circulate despite official records.

Which town mentioned in the historical myths section did not exist at the time of the 1881 referendum?

The town of Cripple Creek is mentioned in historical myths as a contender for the state capital. However, it did not exist in 1881, as it was founded eleven years later in 1892, making its participation in the referendum impossible.

What specific claim is made about the vote margin between Denver and Laporte in historical myths?

According to historical myths, Denver won the 1881 state capital election over Laporte by a single vote. This narrative appears in various historical accounts and online discussions about Laporte's past.

What specific claim is made about the vote margin between Denver and Silver Cliff in historical myths?

A historical myth suggests that if only one vote had been cast differently, Silver Cliff would have become the state capital instead of Denver. This implies an extremely close contest, though official results do not support this narrow margin for Silver Cliff.

What specific claim is made about the vote margin between Denver and Central City in historical myths?

Historical myths assert that Central City lost the vote to become Colorado's state capital by just one vote. This narrative is perpetuated in some accounts of Central City's history.

What was the population of Denver in 1870 and 1880, and what facilitated its growth?

Denver's population grew significantly from 2,360 people in 1870 to 35,629 in 1880. This rapid expansion was largely attributed to the establishment of a railroad connection eastward in 1870 by the Kansas Pacific Railroad, which established Denver as a key hub for commerce and travel within Colorado.

What was the population of Colorado Springs in 1880, and how did it compare to other cities?

In 1880, Colorado Springs had a population of 4,226 inhabitants. This figure made it the fourth most populous town in Colorado at that time, trailing Denver, Leadville, and Silver Cliff.

What was the population of Pueblo in 1880, and how did it rank among Colorado's towns?

Pueblo's population was recorded as 3,217 in the 1880 census. This population size meant it was not among the top five most populous towns in Colorado during that period.

What was the population of Canon City in 1880?

Canon City had a population of 1,501 according to the 1880 census.

What was the role of the Kansas Pacific Railroad in Denver's development?

The Kansas Pacific Railroad established a connection from Denver eastward in 1870. This development was crucial in making Denver the central hub for the movement of people and supplies throughout Colorado, significantly contributing to its population and economic growth.

What was the significance of Denver being the temporary capital since 1876?

Denver had served as the temporary territorial capital since 1861 and continued in this role as the temporary state capital after Colorado's admission to the Union in 1876. This long-standing status provided it with established infrastructure and political influence, while also creating opposition from those who preferred the capital elsewhere.

What was the purpose of the table included in the article about the 1881 referendum?

The table serves to visually present the official results of the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum. It lists each choice, the number of votes received, and the percentage of the total vote, providing a clear breakdown of the election outcome.

What does the image caption describe?

The image caption describes the Colorado State Capitol building located in Denver, noting that it was completed in the year 1908.

1881 Colorado State Capital Referendum Wiki: Colorado's Capital Quest: An Analysis of the 1881 State Capital Referendum

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Background: A Contentious Beginning

Early Capital Choices

The selection of Colorado's permanent state capital was a complex issue, marked by shifting decisions and political maneuvering. Following Colorado's admission to the Union in 1876, Denver served as the temporary capital. However, the state constitution stipulated that a permanent capital would be chosen via a statewide popular vote five years later, in 1881. This provision was a compromise to avoid contention that might jeopardize the ratification of the constitution itself.

The Constitutional Mandate

The state constitution, drafted for admission, deliberately deferred the capital's permanent location to a future referendum. This was a strategic move to prevent any single city's designation from alienating voters statewide. The mandate set the stage for a significant political contest, with Denver, the de facto capital, facing challenges from other aspiring cities.

Historical Precedents

Prior to the 1881 referendum, the territorial capital had been moved several times. Initially chosen as Colorado City (now part of Colorado Springs) in 1861, the legislature soon found its facilities inadequate and adjourned to Denver. The following year, the capital was moved to Golden. Although Golden was the official territorial capital, legislative sessions frequently convened in Denver due to its superior infrastructure. In 1867, the legislature voted to relocate the state government permanently to Denver, but this decision remained contested, leading to the constitutional provision for a definitive vote.

The Contenders: Aspiring Capitals

Denver: The Frontrunner

Denver, by far the largest city in Colorado with a population of 35,629 in 1880, was the clear favorite. Its status as the temporary capital and a major transportation hub, bolstered by the Kansas Pacific Railroad connection established in 1870, provided significant advantages. Businessman Henry Brown offered ten acres near downtown for a new capitol building, a gesture lauded by supporters, though critics noted his personal real estate interests in the vicinity.

Colorado Springs: The Genteel Alternative

Colorado Springs, with 4,226 inhabitants in 1880, presented itself as a more refined alternative to Denver. Founded in 1871, it was rapidly growing and promoted its more genteel atmosphere. Supporters argued that many established states wisely located their capitals away from major commercial centers. Optimism fueled its real estate market, with lots near the proposed capitol site selling at high prices.

Pueblo: A Persistent Bid

Pueblo, with 3,217 residents in 1880, had previously come close to securing the territorial capital in 1874 when a bill passed the territorial house but failed in the senate. The Pueblo Chieftain newspaper advocated for Pueblo, citing its pleasant environment and adequate accommodations for legislators. Despite its smaller size compared to Denver and Colorado Springs, its past bid kept it in contention.

Canon City & Salida: Smaller Aspirants

Canon City, with 1,501 inhabitants in 1880, was primarily a supply point for mining and oil fields and promoted its pleasant climate. It would later be awarded the territorial prison. Salida, founded just the year before the 1880 census, was promoted through its weekly newspaper, the Mountain Mail, which published a distorted map showing Salida at Colorado's geographical center. Neither city possessed the population or infrastructure of the leading contenders.

Notable Non-Contenders

Several other significant towns showed little or no interest in hosting the state capital. Leadville, the second-most populous town in 1880 with 14,820 residents, did not actively campaign. Similarly, Silver Cliff (Colorado's third-largest town) and Golden, the former territorial capital, did not mount serious bids for the 1881 referendum.

Referendum Results: Denver Triumphs

The Vote Count

The statewide referendum was held on November 8, 1881. A total of 45,497 votes were cast. Denver secured a decisive victory, winning 66.48% of the vote on the first ballot, thereby avoiding a runoff. While most cities saw overwhelming support from their local populations, Denver's broad appeal and strategic campaigning proved insurmountable for its rivals.

Official Tally

The official results demonstrated Denver's clear mandate:

Choice	Votes	%
Denver	30,248	66.48
Pueblo	6,047	13.29
Colorado Springs	4,790	10.53
Canon City	2,788	6.13
Salida	695	1.53
Lake City	46	0.10
South Pueblo	42	0.09
Trinidad	40	0.09
Ophir	23	0.05
Saguache	11	0.02
Greeley	10	0.02
Silver Plume	9	0.02
Other cities	748	1.64
Total	45,497	100
Sources: [8][9][10][11][12][13][14]

Reactions: Accusations and Reflections

Accusations of Corruption

Denver's victory was met with accusations of vote-buying and bribery from its rivals. The Colorado Springs Gazette decried the "terrible political contest in which fraud, corruption and dishonor played so important a part." These sentiments reflected the intense competition and the perceived irregularities common in political campaigns of the era.

A Pragmatic Perspective

The editor of the Salida Mountain Mail offered a more pragmatic, albeit cynical, view. While congratulating Denver, he acknowledged that Denver's substantial campaign spending—potentially "thousands of dollars, perhaps hundreds of thousands"—had inadvertently supported newspapers and citizens across the state. This perspective framed the bribery as a form of economic stimulus, however illicit.

Relief in Defeat

Interestingly, the Pueblo Chieftain adopted a tone of relief after losing the bid. The editor suggested that being without the capital spared Pueblo from the "corrupting influences of a legislative lobby" and protected its citizens from the perceived moral hazards associated with political centers. This reaction highlights the complex attitudes towards hosting the state government.

Historical Myths vs. Reality

Debunking Common Narratives

Over time, local folklore has embellished the history of the capital selection, suggesting that towns like Central City, Cripple Creek, Fountain, Golden, Laporte, and Silver Cliff were serious contenders. However, historical records indicate that many of these claims are unsubstantiated. For instance, Cripple Creek did not exist until 1892, well after the referendum.

The "One Vote" Legend

A persistent myth claims that several towns, including Central City, Laporte, and Silver Cliff, lost the referendum to Denver by a single vote. This narrative, often found on local historical websites, lacks factual basis in the documented election results. The official tally shows substantial vote differences, and the "one vote" story appears to be a romanticized embellishment rather than historical fact.

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References

Carl Abbott, Colorado: A History of the Centennial State, Fifth Edition (Boulder: University of Colorado Press, 15 May 2013).

Richard Collins and Dale Oesterle, The Colorado State Constitution (Oxford University Press, 2011) 210.

Robert H. Latta, Denver in the 1880s, Latta Genealogy Newsletter, accessed 2 Oct. 2015.

"Three-fourths of the vote assured for the Queen City," Denver Rocky Mountain News, 10 Nov. 1881, p.8 c.2.

Historic Fountain, Colorado, accessed 2 Oct. 2015.

Wikipedia article for Laporte, Colorado, prior to 31 March 2008.

Gardner, Colorado, Sangres.Com, accessed 30 Sept. 2015.

A full list of references for this article are available at the 1881 Colorado state capital referendum Wikipedia page

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This is not professional historical or political advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for scholarly research or consultation with historical experts. Always refer to primary sources and academic analyses for definitive historical understanding.

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Colorado's Capital Quest

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Background: A Contentious Beginning 📜

🏛️ Early Capital Choices

⚖️ The Constitutional Mandate

📍 Historical Precedents

The Contenders: Aspiring Capitals 🗳️

🏙️ Denver: The Frontrunner

🏞️ Colorado Springs: The Genteel Alternative

🏭 Pueblo: A Persistent Bid

⛰️ Canon City & Salida: Smaller Aspirants

🚫 Notable Non-Contenders

Referendum Results: Denver Triumphs 📊

✅ The Vote Count

📈 Official Tally

Reactions: Accusations and Reflections 📰

🗣️ Accusations of Corruption

🤔 A Pragmatic Perspective

😌 Relief in Defeat

Historical Myths vs. Reality ❓

🧐 Debunking Common Narratives

🗣️ The "One Vote" Legend

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Background: A Contentious Beginning

Early Capital Choices

The Constitutional Mandate

Historical Precedents

The Contenders: Aspiring Capitals

Denver: The Frontrunner

Colorado Springs: The Genteel Alternative

Pueblo: A Persistent Bid

Canon City & Salida: Smaller Aspirants

Notable Non-Contenders

Referendum Results: Denver Triumphs

The Vote Count

Official Tally

Reactions: Accusations and Reflections

Accusations of Corruption

A Pragmatic Perspective

Relief in Defeat

Historical Myths vs. Reality

Debunking Common Narratives

The "One Vote" Legend

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice