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The history of Fort Collins
Fort Collins is in Larimer County, Colorado. The historic downtown streets bring together independent shops, restaurants and local history. The southern part of the city offers another collection of businesses and dining stops.
Fort Collins at a glance
Fort Collins was incorporated on February 12, 1883.
When was Fort Collins founded?
Fort Collins was incorporated on February 12, 1883.
How old is Fort Collins?
About 143 years old, counting from 1883, when it was incorporated.
What county is Fort Collins in?
Fort Collins is in Larimer County, Colorado.
What is the area code for Fort Collins?
Fort Collins uses area codes 970 and 748.
What is the elevation of Fort Collins?
About 4,997 feet (1,523 m) above sea level.
Dates, namesake and elevation from Wikipedia: Fort Collins, Colorado and Wikidata (checked 2026-11-08); population and ZIP codes from the U.S. Census Bureau.
People who shaped Fort Collins
These milestones are an introduction, not a complete local history. Follow the linked city and museum sources to explore the people and places behind them.Read the local historical account.
Watch the city’s history
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Wanderin' Through Fort Collins' Past - Pioneers, Presidents & Trees
A local history film shared by City of Fort Collins.
Watch on YouTube ↗Famous people born in Fort Collins
See all 48 famous people
- 1862
Camp Collins begins
Soldiers were sent to present-day Laporte on July 22 to protect the Cherokee Trail and Overland Stage Line.
Fort Collins History Connection ↗ - 1864
A new military post
Col. William O. Collins ordered a new military reservation at present-day Fort Collins on August 20.
Fort Collins History Connection ↗ - 1872
The reservation opens
Congress opened the former military reservation to pre-emption homesteading on May 15.
Fort Collins History Connection ↗ - 1873
Town incorporation
Fort Collins incorporated as a town on February 3.
Fort Collins History Connection ↗ - 1877
The railroad arrives
The first railroad train arrived along Mason Street on October 8.
Fort Collins History Connection ↗
See the history for yourself.
Walk Old Town Fort Collins, a National Register historic district roughly bounded by College Avenue and Mountain, Pine, Willow and Walnut streets. Check current opening hours before visiting the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery.
For deeper research, the Fort Collins library resources is a starting point for archival material and research help. Historic photographs have their own permissions; we link to the collection instead of treating every old image as free to reuse.
Selected milestones researched September 13, 2026. This is an introduction, not a complete account of the city’s history.