I have been doing some research about the Mancos Times Tribune building, and in my efforts I have discovered another interesting bit of history about Mancos in a booklet titled, "Mancos Moments: From Gold Dust to Cow Patties."

In June 1976, the Colorado General Assembly passed a resolution sponsored by Rep. Roy Wells that designated Mancos as the honorary state capital during the centennial celebration. Remember that this was also the bicentennial year for the United States. Colorado was admitted to the Union in 1876 and Mancos was founded as a community in 1876. It was incorporated as a town in 1894.

In July of 1976, a mountain peak near us was renamed as a part of the centennial celebration. At the time the peak was known as Banded Mountain. It is noteworthy because it was referred to in the Dominguez-Escalante Expedition. We now know it as Centennial Peak.

Many of you will remember Tom Vaughn, former editor of the Mancos Times Tribune. He has been helping me to identify books and materials that can explain the history of the Mancos Times. He stated that he believes the newspaper is the oldest continuously operating business in the downtown commercial district.

The Mancos Common Press, a non-profit group working to restore and preserve the Mancos Times Tribune building and the historic Cranston Press within it, is looking for people in the community who may have some local history to share about the Mancos Times Tribune. Photos would also be helpful. We hope to have the press in operating condition sometime this summer.

You can call the Mancos Valley Chamber of Commerce at 970-533-7434 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. You are also welcome to stop by the office at the Visitor Center, 101 E. Bauer.

Marianne Griffin is the executive director of the Mancos Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, 101 E. Bauer Ave. Visit www.mancosvalley.com or contact her at 533-7434. You can also visit [email protected] for more information.