The
Town of Encampment has a rich history dating back to the mining boom days of
the 1880's, when the famous Ferris-Haggerty copper load was discovered by an
English sheepherder. Ed Haggerty's claim contained enough raw copper to
become the economic base of the Grand Encampment boom. With that huge
discovery came the miners and promoters who laid out the mile square town
complete with four parks with mature shade trees.
At its peak, Encampment had five big stores, a transportation company, a
public school, two church societies, a literary club, a
band, a newspaper, thirty-one mining companies, thirteen saloons and a number of dance
halls. It was incorporated in 1901.
Today, Encampment has a year round population of about
500 residents. The town is the gateway to the Sierra Madre Mountains and
the Medicine Bow National Forest. It is a popular destination for snowmobilers, nature enthusiasts and people looking for a quiet get-a-way.
The
Grand Encampment Museum
is one that you will not want to miss, especially in July when they have
their
Living History Days. The museum has a large collection from the good
old mining days as well as the history leading up to the present day.
Encampment hosts several events throughout the year
including the
Sierra Madre
Winter Carnival,
held the first full weekend in February,
Woodchoppers
Jamboree and Rodeo held the third full weekend in June, the
Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering held the
third
full weekend in July, and of course
Copper Days Festival
held the second full weekend in September.
The Grand Encampment Opera Hall is over 100 years old and is used by
the town as the town hall, a community gathering place, and the location for
melodramas performed by local residents four times a year.
Be sure to check our
annual calendar so you don't miss one minute of excitement in Encampment.
