OSHR 1135 - Wanderin' Through Fort Collins' Past : An In-Depth Look at Area History

This course is offered through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Colorado State University. You must be a member of Osher to enroll in this course.

You view a picture close up and then you walk away from it. You begin to see it as a whole. Sometimes, we need to step back from were we live and see the "whole" picture. Whether you are new to the area or not, you are in for a new perspective!

The course will cover the history of Fort Collins and Larimer County from pre-historic times to present efforts to preserve area history. Included will be an in-depth look at:

- the Folsom finds from 12,000 years ago;
- the military period and the Overland Trail;
- the early founding and growth of the town;
- the importance of agriculture and the development of water resources to this area; and
- the history and growth of the town through the 20th century.

A review of the preservation efforts since the mid-20th century will be included. If you would like to learn more, please join us for two walking tours/field trips OSHR #1336 under Friday listings. Field trips dates are September 26 and October 17 from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm.

Recommended Readings:

Noel, T. & Sladek, R. (2002). Fort Collins and Larimer County: An Illustrated History. Heritage Media Corporation.

Sundberg, W. (2004). Fort Collins’ First Water Works (Again a Work in Progress). Poudre Landmarks Foundation.

Swanson, E. (1975). Fort Collins Yesterdays. Evadene Swanson.

Noncredit courses do not produce academic credit nor appear on a Colorado State University academic transcript.

Instructors

Wayne Sundberg

Wayne Sundberg, is known to many as "Mr. Fort Collins History". He was awarded the Fort Collins Historical Society's "Research and Writing Award" for his book, "Historic Fort Collins" and his second book, "Fort Collins First Waterworks", written for the Poudre Landmarks Foundation, won the Josephine H. Miles Award given by the Colorado Historical Society in 2004. He has also written and produced two commercial VHS tapes, "Fort Collins Lost: The Wrecking Ball of Progress" and "Travelin' Trails."

In addition to numerous other awards and recognitions for his service to the community, the City of Fort Collins honored his contributions by presenting him with its "Friend of Preservation Award" in 1989.

Home Contact Us Request a Catalog Registration Help - Credit Students Help - Noncredit Students Site Map