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As with many western towns, Old Colorado City started its life amidst the Gold Rush period of the latter half of the 19th century. It sprung to life as the hub for prospectors heading up Ute pass to the promise of fortune. It quickly became the capital city of the Colorado territory, until Denver captured that title sometime after official Colorado Statehood. Henry Templeton, like many settlers in Colorado, came west for health reasons. A businessman at heart, he prospered in the creation of Colorado City's "Hawkeye Flour Mill", and helped build portions of the downtown area, namely, the stately brick building on the Northwest corner of what is now 25th and Colorado Ave. This monument still bears his name as "The Templeton Building" and housed many businesses, boarding rooms, and meeting rooms through the last century. Mr. Templeton went on to build his own magnificent home just north of his downtown building, on the corner of 25th and Pikes peak. His family lived many years in this home before his death in 1914. This building too, has had a colorful history, with many businesses that have come and gone. Deb's Coffee House occupies Henry Templeton's home now, vowing to keep much of the homes historical aspects intact as a monument to a true Colorado City pioneer.
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