Colorado Fuel & Iron Company
Sunrise, WyomingRed Ochre, Chert, Copper, and Iron Ore were all harvested from this site
Sunrise Iron Ore
For many years, Sunrise iron ore proudly served as the primary source of iron at the CF&I plant in Pueblo, Colorado!
C&W, U.P.,WR&I, C&S, CB&Q
Millions of tons of Sunrise ore were shipped by rail 375 miles south to Pueblo, Colorado.
The Players
Ichabod Bartlett
First Mine Owner
In 1881, Bartlett jumped into the thrilling realm of mining in the Hartville District, starting his adventure with copper and soon moving on to amazing discoveries! He was the pioneer who first uncovered the renowned deposits in the Sunrise District. Additionally, he unveiled the captivating story of the remains once known as the “Spanish Diggings.” What an extraordinary legacy he created!
Charles Guernsey
Rancher, Businessman, Miner
Charles A. Guernsey was an incredible pioneer, cattleman, and businessman who made a remarkable impact in the Hartville and Sunrise Districts! In 1889, he boldly acquired the renowned Sunrise mine from its original locators, recognizing its potential as a premier producer of high-grade steel ore. Today, the Guernsey home cabin has been thoughtfully relocated near the entrance of Sunrise, preserving its legacy for all to admire!
John C. Osgood
CF&I Founder
Osgood, an inspiring self-made entrepreneur, founded the Colorado Fuel and Iron Company in 1892 and boldly shifted iron ore production to the Sunrise mine in 1899! Despite facing costly strikes in 1894 and 1901, Osgood stood firm, believing that management had the miners’ best interests at heart. However, strikes at other Colorado mines posed challenges, leading to a fierce stock battle in 1903, where John D. Rockefeller emerged victorious, resulting in Osgood’s loss of control over CF&I. What a remarkable journey full of ups and downs!
John D. Rockefeller
Sr. and Jr.
Rockefeller Senior’s financial adviser brought him in to secure the funds needed to rescue CF&I, and the excitement was palpable! After a thorough analysis, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. recognized that the company needed significantly more capital, which he eagerly provided in exchange for acquiring CF&I. The 1913-14 strike, coupled with the tragic Ludlow Massacre, galvanized public sentiment against Rockefeller Jr., prompting him to take action to restore the family’s esteemed reputation. With enthusiasm, he funded transformative projects in Sunrise, including the construction of the YMCA and a new hospital!
Hartville Uplift
Major Verling Hart
Major Verling K. Hart, a former officer at Ft. Laramie, enthusiastically named the lively town of Hartville when he launched a thrilling copper mine right in this location!
Major Verling Hart
Major Verling K. Hart, a former officer at Ft. Laramie, enthusiastically named the lively town of Hartville when he launched a thrilling copper mine right in this location!
Hartville Uplift
1900 "We Have a Mine"
C & W Railroad
The Colorado and Wyoming Railroad completed the railroad into Sunrise, Wyoming April 25th, 1900.
Boiler House
March 27th, 1904. The smokestack was erected on the Boiler House. This would provide steam power and heat to the operation.
Shaft #1
Sinking of Shaft No. 1 started December 1902. It was to be six foot by eighteen feet. Initial depth was 200 feet. Later it was deepened to 320 feet.
Yesterday Versus Today
Sunrise "Glory Hole"
"Glory Hole" Today
The type of mining that was done at Sunrise from 1906 to 1941 was called Glory Hole mining. It originated in Minnesota and Michigan.
Sunrise Fire Truck
Sunrise Fire Truck Today
Sunrise Fire Truck Today
Old CF&I Buildings
Boiler House, Coal Storage & Laboratory
CF&I Buildings Now
Boiler Coal Storage, Laboratory & Hoist House
Looking Toward the "Glory Hole"
Boiler House & No. 1 Shaft
"Glory Hole" Now
Boiler House, Coal Storage & Laboratory
Aerial View
Hoist House & No. 3 Shaft
Aerial View Now
Boiler House, Laboratory, The Dry & Hoist House
A Big Thanks to All Who Contribute to SHAPPS
Join the SHAPPS community today as an individual or family and be part of something incredible! Your contributions will play a vital role in supporting and enhancing this lasting legacy. Businesses and institutions are also welcome to join as inactive members to showcase their support. Let's make a difference together!
Contact US
SHAPPS
PO Box 380
Hartville, WY 82215
PH: 307-331-8810