Ghost Towns of the Rockies

Keota

Ghost town in Weld County, Colorado · Eastern Plains district

Founded
1880
Peak Population
~150
Elevation
4,964 ft
Primary Industry
railroad
County
Weld
Coordinates
40.7028, -104.0753
View on Interactive Map Directions (Google Maps) Wikipedia

History

Established as a homestead in 1880 by sisters Mary and Eva Beardsley, sold to the Lincoln Land and Cattle Co. in 1888. A station on the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad's 'Old Prairie Dog Express,' Keota served 1,250 surrounding homesteads and supported a high school, newspaper, church, and even a doctor and lawyer. Drought in the 1890s caused a first decline; a wet weather revival in 1909 brought a second boom with churches, an opera house, and fire department. Lost incorporated status in 1990. Railroad tracks removed by 1982. Inspired James Michener's fictional 'Line Camp' in his novel Centennial.

Visiting Keota

What remains: Ghost town. Silver water tower still stands. A few residents in modern houses surround the historic townsite.

Access: County roads northeast of Briggsdale off Highway 14. Gravel roads, passable in dry weather.

Photos

Abandoned town of Keota, Colorado, during Dust Bowl.
Abandoned town of Keota, Colorado, during Dust Bowl. — Arthur Rothstein (Public domain)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Keota?

Keota is located in Weld County, Colorado, in the Eastern Plains area at an elevation of 4,964 ft, coordinates 40.7028, -104.0753.

Can you visit Keota today?

County roads northeast of Briggsdale off Highway 14. Gravel roads, passable in dry weather.

What remains at Keota?

Ghost town. Silver water tower still stands. A few residents in modern houses surround the historic townsite.

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