The small town of Lafayette is located in Boulder County in the State of Colorado. It is spread across an area of just 8.9 square miles and has an estimated population of over 28,000 residents. Lafayette real estate has stayed strong and is an economic alternative to housing in Boulder while still being close enough to keep the perks.
The city of Lafayette was founded by Mary Miller, wife of Lafayette Miller, in the year 1878. After her husband’s death she designated 150 acres of her farm, which she had acquired through Homestead Act in 1871, to the town of Lafayette. Coal was discovered in the area in 1884 and the first coal mine was setup in 1887. Following the establishment of Cannon, the second coal mine, the first houses were built in the area and the city was finally incorporated on January 6, 1890.
The initial economy of Lafayette was mostly governed by the coal mining industry with the Simpson mines and the Cannon being the largest producers of coal. By 1914 the city was flourishing having two banks and four hotels and industries such as brickworks. A power station was setup in the city that also served Louisville, Boulder, Longmont, and Fort Collins. The 1950s saw a decline in the coal mining industry because coal was being replaced by natural gas. This brought Lafayette back to its original identity of an agricultural community. The city witnessed residential growth because of the developments in the neighboring areas like Denver and Boulder. Over the years commercial, small industries and manufacturing units have played a significant role in the development of the city, and Lafayette CO real estate.
One look at the city today and you can see that Lafayette is now a thriving community showcasing some of the best commercial and cultural centers in the Old Town District. The city plays host to a large number of events and festivals that include the oatmeal festival, peach festival, the wine festival and the widely popular Lafayette Days. There are many recreational activities and entertainment options available in Lafayette. One can play a round of golf at the Indian Peaks Golf Course or workout, swim or play racquetball at the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center. It is one of the prime locations in the city for family recreation. To learn more about this flourishing community contact a Lafayette realtor. They will be able to point you in the right direction and offer you options you may not have found on your own.
