Cripple Creek
State: Colorado
County: Teller County
Founded: 1890
Peak Population: 55,000
Cripple Creek was Colorado's last great gold rush (1890s), producing more gold than California and Alaska combined. Winfield Scott Stratton sold his Independence Mine for $11 million. After near-ghost-town status in the 1980s (pop. 600), legalized gambling in 1991 brought revival.
Quick Facts
- Produced more gold than California and Alaska gold rushes combined
- Stratton sold his mine for $11 million and spent it on philanthropy
- Dropped to 600 people before gambling brought revival
- One of three Colorado towns with legalized gambling
Location
Address: Cripple Creek, Teller County, Colorado
Coordinates: 38.7467, -105.1786