MUSEUMS

Venture into the frontier at  Fort Uncompahgre in Delta on a site where Ute Indians and trappers once traded. Throughout the summer you can stroll back in time as the Fort's Mountain Man takes you on an interpretive tour of the Fort and its lifestyle.

The Delta history museum boasts a world class butterfly collection, dinosaur bones, a gift from the King of Siam and legendary Tom Horn's braided bridle. The museum is stocked with outlaws, local lore and much more. Buy a copy of "A Spirit Returns", authored by local historian Jim Wetzel. All the proceeds benefit the Delta County Museum and their efforts. You will be enchanted by the common notions of the day and the wonderful collection of photographs.

Visit Pioneer Town in Cedaredge and tour a meticulously reconstructed 19th-century western village. This little town inside of the Town of Cedaredge is loaded with exhibits and great interpretation. Walk the boardwalk of Pioneer Town and you might hear the voices of residents past.

Unique art galleries, antique shops, artist studios and boutiques abound throughout Delta Country. And Paonia is home to one the few bronze foundries in the United States. Tours are open to the public by appointment.

Hotchkiss, Crawford and Paonia all have fine museums that regale you with the past lore and legends of how our communities got their names, got on the map and what they are famous for.