Littleton History
From the 1859 Gold Rush to a thriving modern community.
Our Roots Run Deep
Littleton's story began in 1859 during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush. When Richard Sullivan Little, an engineer from New Hampshire, arrived to build water systems for the growing city of Denver, he fell in love with the area that would eventually bear his name.
Unlike many boom-and-bust mining towns, Littleton was built on agriculture. The fertile land along the South Platte River provided the perfect environment for farming, which sustained the community long after the gold miners moved on.
Littleton Museum
Step back in time at this Smithsonian-affiliated living history museum. Featuring two working farms (1860s and 1890s) complete with livestock and interpreters in period dress.
Historic Downtown
Main Street retains much of its turn-of-the-century charm. Many of the original buildings now house boutique shops, restaurants, and local businesses.