Before railroads, travel in Colorado was arduous, relying on wagons over rugged terrain. The arrival of railroads in the 19th century transformed the state’s economy, fueling mining, agriculture, and tourism. Colorado’s railroad era began in 1870 when the Denver Pacific Railway connected Denver to the transcontinental railroad. That same year, the Kansas Pacific Railroad linked Denver to the national network, ensuring the city’s survival and growth.

From Discovery of Gold and Silver to Preserving Heritage

The discovery of gold and silver spurred demand for efficient transport. Narrow-gauge railroads, like the Denver & Rio Grande Railway (D&RG), navigated the steep mountains, facilitating mineral extraction and economic expansion.

Railroads such as the Colorado Midland and the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe competed fiercely for key routes, leading to conflicts like the Royal Gorge War. Rail expansion also boosted agriculture, connecting farmers to distant markets and spurring settlement. By the early 20th century, automobiles and highways reduced passenger rail use, leading to line abandonments. However, historic railways like the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad remain as tourist attractions, preserving Colorado’s rail heritage.

Rail Yard Studios Also Aims to Preserve Heritage

Our founder's father and he handbuilt tables and cabinets as he was growing up as a hobby around the home.

Our furniture line began as a collection of tables and benches built in his parents' garage based on a few hand-drawn sketches he had made. The formula was equal parts of nostalgia and passion, and it gave his father and him the opportunity to make it a career together. That's how Rail Yard Studios was born, and it's been preserving railroad history ever since.

ASLRRA - April 6-8 in Denver - Booth 1000

One of our best selling lines of furniture is through a partnership with Olhausen Billiards in Tennessee. We design and make the bases for some of their high-end pool tables, shuffleboard tables, and more. We'll display one of the pool tables at the conference, so make sure you stop by Booth 1000 for a break.