I love everything about Colorado, from the mountains to the desert.

I love everything about Colorado, from the mountains to the desert. Allison | Kannah Creek, CO

ALLISON, WE ALSO Love EVERYTHING ABOUT COLORADO. 

That’s why we’re helping document it all in the Colorado Encyclopedia. 

Campus Location

Boulder Boulder
The sun setting over a rock canyon

The Colorado Encyclopedia is the leading online resource for discovering the Centennial State, offering over 1,000 entries crafted by a diverse team of students, researchers, community members, and experts, including a University of Colorado professor, the executive director of the Chicago History Museum, and an author specializing in the American West. 

It provides comprehensive coverage of a wide range of topics, including Colorado’s ancient history, wildlife, sports, weather, geology, contemporary culture, and current events. 

Since its inception, Colorado Encyclopedia has been generously supported by the NEH, Colorado State Historical Fund, major universities, and various local organizations. Approximately 25 percent of all entries are available at 4th, 8th, and 10th-grade reading levels, enhancing accessibility for K-12 students. Many entries also include teacher resources designed to align with state educational standards. 

As an online resource, Colorado Encyclopedia serves educators, students, and the public who wish to deepen their understanding of the Centennial State. The Place section, edited by affiliates of the Center of the American West, includes articles on key topics such as Rocky Mountain National Park and the Coors Brewing Company. 

In 2019, Colorado Encyclopedia received another major grant from the NEH, which launched its second development phase. This phase coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the value of reliable digital resources as libraries, museums, and archives across the nation closed. During this period, Colorado Encyclopedia continued to grow, adding over 300 new entries along with educational resources like interactive inquiry cards and award-winning History Day essays on Colorado topics for students. 

In 2020, the Colorado Encyclopedia received another grant from the State Historical Fund to pilot virtual tours of historical sites. With innovative drone photography and other technologies, users will soon be able to explore these sites virtually and learn about them from all perspectives. 

What’s Next for Colorado Encyclopedia 

Currently, Colorado Encyclopedia is applying for additional NEH funding for a third development phase. This phase aims to merge Colorado Encyclopedia with History Colorado, the state’s leading historical society, ensuring ongoing support and continued growth.  

With the sustained support of its partners, Colorado Encyclopedia remains the most reliable source of information for anyone interested in learning about the Centennial State. 

 

Bison Grazing
A black and white photo of a woman posing for a photo in the 1920s
Bison bone and Folsom point encased in rock