How Did Denver Get Its Name?
Denver, Colorado, owes its name to James W. Denver, a governor of the Kansas Territory in 1858. However, the city’s founders initially aimed to curry favor with a different political figure.
The story of Denver’s naming is intertwined with political maneuvering, a bit of opportunism, and the hopes of early settlers in the American West.
The Initial Plan: Naming the City “Lawrence”
In November 1858, General William Larimer, Jr., a land speculator from Leavenworth, Kansas, arrived at the confluence of the South Platte River and Cherry Creek. He quickly laid claim to a settlement site, hoping to capitalize on the ongoing Pike’s Peak Gold Rush. Larimer initially intended to name the city “Lawrence” in honor of his hometown and Kansas territorial anti-slavery leader, Amos Lawrence. He believed this would secure support and resources for the fledgling settlement.
The Change of Heart: Honoring Governor Denver
However, when Larimer and his associates learned that Governor James W. Denver of the Kansas Territory was about to leave office, they saw a new opportunity. They believed that naming the city after the outgoing governor would be a strategic move to gain his favor and potentially influence future decisions that could benefit their town. Denver, although soon to be replaced, still held significant power and connections.
The Result: Denver City
The name “Denver City” was officially adopted in late 1858. To cement the honor, the founders reportedly sent Governor Denver a barrel of gold dust and other gifts, hoping to further ingratiate themselves. Though Governor Denver never actually visited the city that bore his name, the moniker stuck, and the “City” was dropped later.
James W. Denver: A Brief Biography
James William Denver (1809–1892) was an American politician, soldier, and lawyer. He served as a U.S. Representative from California, the Governor of the Kansas Territory, and a general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Although his tenure as governor of the Kansas Territory was relatively short, his name became permanently associated with the city of Denver. More details on his life and career can be found on James W. Denver’s Wikipedia page.
FAQs About Denver’s Name
Why was Denver named after James W. Denver?
Denver was named after James W. Denver because the city’s founders wanted to gain favor with the then-Governor of the Kansas Territory and hopefully secure his support for the growing settlement.
Did James W. Denver ever visit Denver, Colorado?
No, James W. Denver never actually visited the city that bears his name.
What was Denver’s original name supposed to be?
The initial plan was to name the city “Lawrence,” after Amos Lawrence, a prominent figure from Kansas.
When was Denver named?
The name “Denver City” was officially adopted in late 1858.
Did Governor Denver know about the city being named after him?
Yes, the founders reportedly sent Governor Denver gifts, including a barrel of gold dust, to honor him and acknowledge the city’s name.
Summary
Denver got its name through a combination of strategic political maneuvering and the ambitions of its founding fathers. While their initial intention was to honor Amos Lawrence, they ultimately decided that naming the city after Governor James W. Denver would provide a greater advantage in securing support and resources for their burgeoning settlement, forever linking the Governor’s name to the vibrant city.
Leave a Reply