Golden

Golden was founded during the gold rush of 1859, but gold seekers were not its first inhabitants. The area had been frequented by the Ute, Arapaho, and Cheyenne tribes, as well as early trappers Louis Vasquez and Rufus Sage. Most sources agree that the town was named for settler Tom Golden, one of the early gulch miners who panned gold in the valley of Clear Creek.

Today, Golden is poised as one of Jefferson County's leading communities. Diversified local industry, the courthouse that graces the ridge south of town, a thriving downtown, and the Visitors Center represent the city's optimistic outlook for the future. Golden struggles with the challenge of retaining its small town identity in the face of Denver's metropolitan suburbs expanding ever westward. However, the diligent efforts of the historic preservation board and dedicated local preservationists are ensuring that Golden's heritage lives on for future generations to enjoy.

City of Golden