Tin Cup

State: Colorado County: Gunnison County Founded: 1880 Peak Population: 6,000

Tin Cup was known as the 'wildest mining camp in Colorado'—early prospectors used a tin cup to pan gold, giving it its name. Originally called Virginia City until postal confusion prompted the change. At 10,157 feet with 6,000 residents, it was rough, violent, and short-lived.

Quick Facts

  • Named for the tin cup used to pan the first gold
  • Originally called Virginia City until postal confusion
  • Earned reputation as 'wildest mining camp in Colorado'
  • Cemetery contains many who died in violent confrontations

Location

Address: Tin Cup, Gunnison County, Colorado

Coordinates: 38.7544, -106.4769