HISTORY OF CALLICOTTE RANCH

The most colorful man in the history of Callicotte Ranch was one of its former owners, William Riley Callicotte. Mr. W.R. Callicotte relocated to Carbondale, Colorado from Kentucky in the late 1800’s. A Civil War veteran, W.R. held many professional positions during his life and was considered a great, noble man. Originally a teacher in Leadville and Aspen, W.R. later owned a fish hatchery, became an insurance man, and then a land surveyor (which might explain the pure majesty of the Callicotte Ranch). Having aspirations for further public service, W.R. was the State Commissioner and Game Warden in 1893-1896, later became a lobbyist, and once even ran for the U.S. Senate. W.R., his wife, and five children spent much time traveling between Aspen and Denver since they were given free passage by William’s brothers who were engineers on the Colorado railroads. William started the State Humane Society for Children and Animals, and taught related classes in Greeley, Colorado. The demise of W.R. Callicotte was just an interesting as his life. He emerged from the Capital building in Denver and saw a runaway, driverless car, heading towards two teenage girls. So W.R. jumped to his death attempting to push them from its path. Unfortunately, he was decapitated in the process.

The 173-acre ranch remained in the family through the 1900’s and was used primarily by his son Jesse who was the first one to actually work the land, and later as a family campground and retreat. Only recently, it was sold ‘out of the family’. In June of 2007, the ranch was purchased by Bush Development, the name reverted back to “Callicotte Ranch” and final measures were taken to develop the ranch into 28 remarkable home. Today, homeowners can enjoy not only the natural splendor, but the legend that is now Callicotte Ranch.

LIFESTYLE

Originally the richest silver lode in the world, Aspen’s fortunes fell with the gold standard. Luckily in 1947, Aspen Mountain opened with the world’s longest ski lift. Followed by, Walter Paepcke vision to bring international leaders, artists, and musicians to Aspen to develop Aspen’s role as a cultural center for music, art, dance, theater, and international studies programs. Aspen brings a distinct mix of recreation and culture, landscape and activity. Its four world-class ski mountains and miles of groomed back country Nordic trails, make Aspen one of Colorado’s favorite year-round resort areas. Aspen features luxurious spas, chic art galleries, worldclass dining and entertainment. Touted as the playground for the rich and famous, Aspen offers something for everyone.

BASALT

Located in the Roaring Fork Valley between Aspen and Glenwood Springs is the gateway to some of the most beautiful country in the Rocky Mountains. The quant town of Basalt lies within thirty minutes of seven golf courses, five ski areas, a commercial airport and world-class cultural events. It is surrounded by National Forest, Gold Medal waters and miles of recreational trails. Nestled between majestic Mount Sopris and Basalt Mountain, Basalt offers cross-country skiing, hiking and biking trails…thousands of acres of pristine mountain wilderness. At Reudi Reservoir minutes from Basalt, you will also find the most beautiful setting for wind surfing, sailing, boating and water skiing.

CARBONDALE

Highly coveted because of its rich and fertile land, the early settlers started cattle and sheep ranches and began growing potatoes; the mainstay crop for over 50 years. Known as the gateway to the Crystal River Valley, Carbondale is anchored to the South by 12,953 ft. Mount Sopris, hailed as Colorado’s greatest continuous vertical gain. Carbondale is a vibrant mountain town, abundant with charm and is characterized by its sunshine, low humidity and mild winters. From hiking to biking, golfing to kayaking, rafting to fly-fishing …there is always plenty to do. In the winter, try crosscountry skiing or snow-shoeing at any one of the many hiking trails nearby. Carbondale’s quaint downtown area offers fine dining, live music, theater, galleries and arts. Carbondale’s residents enjoy a great quality of life.  Golf options include River Valley Ranch or Aspen Glen.