[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 68 (Thursday, May 26, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: May 26, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                           OLD SPANISH TRAIL

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                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 26, 1994

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, today I introduce legislation to designate 
the Old Spanish Trail and its Northern Branch for study as a potential 
addition to the National Trails System.
  Designation of the Old Spanish Trail and its Northern Branch as an 
historic trail would greatly enhance tourism in western Colorado. The 
Old Spanish Trail is replete with the rich and fascinating history of 
exploration and development of the American West.
  Between 1829 and 1848, the Old Spanish Trail was established as a 
major trade route between Santa Fe and Los Angeles that stretched 
approximately 1,121 miles. This route enters Colorado south of Pagosa 
Springs, and passes through Arboles, Ignacio, Durango, Mancos, Dolores, 
and Dove Creek before heading west to Utah. This was essentially the 
route used by Fathers Dominguez and Escalante in 1776. The Old Spanish 
Trail and its Northern Branch have been the routes of travelers for 
many years and were instrumental in the creation and establishment of 
many of Colorado's towns and communities.
  Another historic trade route, the Northern Branch, was used 
predominately by fur trappers for access to northwestern Colorado and 
northeastern Utah. Very little information actually has been recorded 
concerning the Northern Branch, and much more can be learned about the 
Old Spanish Trail.
  This legislation would recognize the importance and historical value 
of the Old Spanish Trail and acknowledge the culture and prompt passage 
of this legislation.

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