Plan to take a close look at this town with either a walking or driving tour; the whole town is a historical treasure. It was founded in 1864 as a military post to protect travelers and gold rushers on the Overland Trail.
It was originally called Fort Tyler then Camp Wardell. It was given its current name in 1866 to honor Colonel Christopher Anthony Morgan who was killed on Jan. 20, 1866 when the fire went out in his gas stove while he was warming his room. Pick up a Historical Downtown Walking Tour map and read about the 44 buildings in this nine block area that made up the early town of Fort Morgan.
Or, obtain a Historical Driving Tour map and check out 13 historical markers and buildings in the Fort Morgan, Weldona, Orchard, Snyder and Goodrich area. This tour includes stops at the old Fort Morgan site, established in 1864, Centennial at Orchard (where part of the TV mini-series “Centennial” was filmed), and the Texas-Montana Trail. Both maps are available at the Fort Morgan Museum.
Don’t miss the James Marsh Arch Bridge in Fort Morgan. This is the only rainbow arch bridge in Colorado and is designated a Colorado historic site. Adjacent to Rainbow Bridge, Riverside Park has a huge array of amenities for any age. The South Platte River runs alongside Riverside Park and provides spectacular opportunities to view wildlife. At any given time, you may see geese, deer, quail, wild turkey, or an occasional bald eagle. The Sherman Historic District is also a popular venue for tourists in Fort Morgan. Designated a National Historic Place, this picturesque street is lined with beautiful houses from our past.
Visit the Fort Morgan Museum to see magnificent exhibits, including an old time soda fountain, and a first class exhibit on Glenn Miller, who graduated from high school in Fort Morgan. The Morgan County Home & Garden Show in March kicks off a summer packed with activities. Join us for Glenn Miller – Dancin’ on the Plains, Festival in The Park, Fall Harvest Car Show as well as the Windmill Century Classic and Pedal the Prairie Bike Rides. Whatever your wish, Fort Morgan provides a wide range of restaurants and lodging to accommodate your travel needs. Bring your family down for the day, or a weekend to explore the scenic beauty of Morgan County – a place that seems a world away. |