THE HISTORY OF HARTSEL

American Rancher Samuel Hartsel embarked on a journey to Colorado in May of 1860, traveling by ox train, enticed by the Pikes Peak gold rush. However, upon his arrival in Park County, Hartsel swiftly recognized that gold mining was not the lucrative venture he had envisioned. Consequently, in 1862, he decided to homestead 160 acres at the confluence of the Middle and South forks of the South Platte River. This strategic move led to the establishment of a townsite close to a neighboring hot spring, which he later developed. Today, the town of Hartsel perseveres, with the original bathhouse near the hot springs serving as a historical landmark. Through perseverance and dedication, Samuel Hartsel transformed his homestead into one of the largest ranches in the state of Colorado.

In the 20th century, the ownership of the ranch underwent several changes. One notable owner during that time was Cap McDannald, who, along with his business partner Louise Williams, played a significant role in the ranch's history. While Mrs. Williams and her family frequented Hartsel Ranch in the summers, Mr. McDannald preferred spending time with his family at the Ken-Caryl ranch near Denver. Over time, Mr. McDannald expanded the ranch, ultimately increasing its size to over 220,000 acres of deeded land. Following Mr. McDannald's passing, the ranch underwent subdivision and subsequent sale, leading to its current size of approximately 1,000 acres.

Today, the ranch is currently owned by the Roe family, a dedicated and passionate group who are committed to carrying on the legacy that has been carefully cultivated over the years. With a strong focus on fly fishing and preserving the natural habitat, as well as offering cozy cabins for comfort and accommodation, the Roe family is fully devoted to maintaining the rich historical significance of the property. They strive to continue creating unforgettable experiences and lasting memories on this renowned and storied land.