Region: Panhandle Plains
In the early 1800s, the Comanche, Kiowa, Apache and Lipan tribes inhabited
the area. Mitchell County was organized on Jan. 10, 1881, and the town of
Colorado was designated as the county seat. It sprung up overnight as a typical
Wild West town, with the added attraction of a short-lived gold strike. The
Texas and Pacific Railway built their line to Colorado, making it West Texas'
first boomtown. It is the center of a rich agricultural region that includes
extensive industry related to petroleum and wind.
During designated seasons, hunters seek pronghorn antelope, deer, javelina,
wild turkey, upland game birds and migratory waterfowl.
Antique and craft malls and other shops offer excellent downtown shopping.
The Chamber of Commerce sponsors Railhead Trade Days on the third weekend of
March, June and November. The city also hosts the Old Timers Reunion and Cowboy
Breakfast the last weekend in September, Ranch Rodeo in June and the annual J.O.
Dockery July Fourth Fly-in.