Naturita to Nucla

TravelerNucla is a statutory town in Montrose County, Colorado, United States. The population was 585 as of the 2020 census, down from 711 in 2010. Its name comes from the town founders' intent that it serve as a "nucleus" for the surrounding farms and mines, although it has since come to be associated with the growth of uranium mining in the region. Nucla, Colorado

TravelerThe post office in Naturita was opened on October 21, 1881, under the name "Chipeta"; the name was changed to Naturita September 15, 1882, and has used that name since then.[7][8] Naturita is a name derived from Spanish meaning "little nature".

TravelerNaturita, Colorado Naturita CO Town Hall Naturita Town Hall on East Main Street. Photo: Jeffrey Beall Naturita is a tiny Colorado town located 52 miles west of Telluride. This historic town dates back to 1881 and currently offers an inn, café, gas station, grocery store, and a motel for visitors to enjoy. The Montrose County town resides at an elevation of 5,417 feet and sits along the Dolores River. It has a great balance of history and outdoor recreation, so there is something for everyone to discover. It was incorporated on November 30, 1951, and has around 451 residents as of 2020. History In the late 1800s, Naturita was a vibrant ranching community along the San Miguel River. There was a schoolhouse, a church, and a post office. Many residents made their living off of cattle ranching. In the early 1900s, several mineral deposits were discovered in nearby towns and Naturita became somewhat of a central hub for activity. Residents capitalized on the influx of people in town and made good profits off their small businesses to support the miners and mining processes. Uranium mining became the main economic sector in the town in 1939 and continued to keep the mills busy throughout World War II. Eventually, market prices fell, mills closed down, and people moved out of town in search of the next great thing. Naturita was resilient and diversified to stay afloat, and today many make their livings off of cattle ranching, farming, and tourism.