It’s hard to imagine Boulder without the University of Colorado, a defining feature of the city that has shaped its culture, economy, and reputation as a hub of education and innovation. But in the 1870s, the University of Colorado almost ended up in Cañon City—a decision that would have dramatically changed the trajectory of both cities. So how did Boulder secure its place as the home of CU? It all comes down to persistence, strategy, and a little bit of fate.

Boulder vs. Cañon City: The Great Debate

In the 1870s, the Colorado state legislature decided to establish a state university and asked cities to compete for the honor of hosting it. The contenders? Boulder and Cañon City. At the time, both cities were growing communities eager to gain the prestige and economic boost that would come with a university.

Boulder’s citizens were determined to win. Residents lobbied tirelessly, promising financial support and land for the university. They even raised $15,000—a huge sum at the time—to show their commitment. Meanwhile, Cañon City also made its case, leveraging its central location and growing infrastructure.

The Consolation Prize

When the dust settled, Boulder emerged victorious. But Cañon City didn’t leave the table empty-handed. As a consolation prize, it was awarded the site for the new Colorado State Prison (now the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility). While that may not sound glamorous, the prison became an economic driver for Cañon City in its own way.

What If?

Imagine if CU had been built in Cañon City instead of Boulder. Boulder might have become a sleepy mountain town, while Cañon City could have been a bustling college town. CU’s presence transformed Boulder into a vibrant community filled with students, researchers, and cultural institutions. It’s also a major reason why Boulder is known for its innovation and progressive values today.

Fun Facts About CU Boulder’s History

1. CU Boulder was officially established in 1876, the same year Colorado became a state.
2. The first building on campus, Old Main, still stands today and remains an iconic landmark.
3. Boulder’s residents planted more than 300 trees on campus to beautify the grounds after winning the university bid.

The University of Colorado and Boulder have become synonymous, but it’s fascinating to think how close it came to never happening. Thanks to the determination of Boulder’s citizens, CU found its forever home, and the city flourished as a result.

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