History at High Noon: Narrow Gauge Railroads in the San Juan Mining District

Mesa County Libraries is happy to participate in the America 250 - Colorado 150 Commemoration as the nation celebrates 250 years of independence along with the 150 year anniversary of Colorado becoming a state. The Mesa County Oral History Meetings typically take place on a monthly basis at the Central Library in Grand Junction from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. and are free of charge for the public to attend.

History at High Noon happens from 12pm to 1pm on the third Thursday of the month in the Central Library Community room in partnership with the Mesa County Historical Society.

This talk will explore the Red Mountain Mining District and explain how the narrow-gauge Silverton train navigated there. Three engineering feats conquered seemingly impossible odds—7% grades, 30-degree curves, and passes over 11,000 feet—so the trains could supply the mines, smelters, and mining communities.

Presenter Katie Burke has planned, organized, and/or participated in as guest presenter or featured speaker for businesses, non-profit organizations, and government entities. Burke has also served on boards and published magazines such as San Juan Silver State, Ouray County Magazine, and RR Magazine.