Lyons At A Glance

Learn More About Historic Lyons

Like many other communities in the region mining has been integral to the birth and growth of Lyons Colorado. Lyons was a little different than other areas though, with its mining industry being based on sandstone rather than gold and silver. The area had been settled by the Ute people in the 17^th century, attracted by plentiful bison herds. In the mid 19^th century easterners were drawn to the foothills by the Colorado Gold Rush. Ranches and settlements supporting the mining industry began to proliferate. The town is surrounded on three sides by large red sandstone mountains. In 1880 Edward S. Lyon purchased 160 acres of land hoping to make a business quarrying the high quality sandstone. While he did not succeed, moving to California, in his wake others built a booming quarrying industry.

In 1881 the first permanent building, the old schoolhouse was built from locally quarried rock. The building still stands today and has been converted to the Lyons Historical Society. Quarrying continued to be the bedrock of the local economy into the 20^th century, receiving a big boost when a rail line reached the town, making transport of the stone easier.

The beautiful red sandstone quite literally became the foundation of the town, providing an abundant high quality source of building material. Despite its relatively small size, Lyons has 15 buildings on the National Register of historic buildings.

There’s more than history in Lyons. Today it is a vibrant community with a rich cultural life. The town has a large population of artists, whose work is annually shown during the Lyons Studio Tour. The town has an abundance of public art, much of it sculpture carved from the ubiquitous local red sandstone. Lyons hosts two major music festivals annually, the Rockygrass Bluegrass festival and the Folks Festival, drawing performers and audiences from around the world.

Lyons is well known for its outdoor recreation. Because of its proximity to the mountains hiking, climbing and mountain biking are popular pursuits. Horseback trails are also available. The St Vrain River provides for great water sports including canoeing and fly fishing. The river is a kayakers dream, featuring class II to class IV rapids.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor fun, music or architecture there’s plenty to do and see in Lyons. Your local All My Sons Moving & Storage team is your friend in the moving business. When you’re ready to move give us a call at (720) 575-1155.