The fair city of Alamosa, so christened from its cottonwood trees, by the poetry of the Spaniard responds with leafy wealth and slipping stream to the idea which inspired the conceit. In the centre of the heart of the San Luis Valley, on the southern bank of the Rio Grande River where it glides between the counties of Costilla and Conejos, Alamosa is fed by a thousand fertile farms and populated by a liberal, far-seeing and enterprising people. The headquarters of the fourth division of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad are situated here, and the striking and changing of iron on iron resounds from the machine shops. The line from Pueblo, that engineering marvel which triumphed over the steep heights of La Veta, the road to Conejos, and the Latin civilization of New Mexico and the South, centre here, while the diversion of traffic, due to the opening of the Villa Grove extension, bring closer ties that bind Alamosa to Denver, her great rival on the north. Artesian wells supply the citizens with the bright, white water of their crystal streams, and the glittering incandescence of electric lights on the streets, offices and business houses fringes with its stars “the trailing garments of the night.” The amount of trade conducted at Alamosa has an ever increasing volume and the stored treasures of her merchants find fitting homes in the brick buildings, symmetrical, spacious and serviceable, which contain them. Four churches, the offerings of the Episcopalians, Presbyterians, Methodists and Catholics, adorn the city, and point with their admonishing spires to the blue skies of Colorado. The residence houses, which so charmingly grace the outskirts and suburbs, have much of architectural art, and form luxurious homes with their aesthetically furnished rooms for Alamosa’s hospitable families. The historic river of the Rio Grande sweeps or ripples hard by with its murmuring waters, and the planting of trees in parks and pleasure places already begins to give promise a vigorous growth. The great ditch companies which have reclaimed from nature to the uses of man so many thousand acres of fertile lands, have their offices in Alamosa, and the enquiries received from Eastern intending purchasers for lands in the San Luis Valley, fully occupy the careful time of an army of officials and clerks. The crops raised this fall in the immediate vicinity of Alamosa have surprised even the most enthusiastic believers, and the immense development of agriculture in recent years which has displaced the rough methods of the range and induced the application of scientific farming will, without doubt, be doubled in the fullness of the New Year. From mineral wealth too, Alamosa can claim to draw her share of custom, and Platoro and Sierra Blanca are not unvalued satellites in the calls they make on her merchants. There are two banks in Alamosa, the First National and the Bank of Alamosa, both institutions of considerable prominence in Southern Colorado, while other financiers in various loan and real estate offices are ever ready to afford information, advice or the more solid satisfaction of the highest loans on the easiest terms. The large stocks of goods carried by the Alamosa merchants, owing to her unchallenged possession of the best railroad facilities in the Valley and consequent abatement of uncompromising freights, can be, and are wholesaled and retailed at no exorbitant rates. There is already here a considerable movement in town property and lots. The present main business portion of the town runs the whole length of Sixth street, where each store has its plate glass front, its awning and spacious stretch of sidewalk for pedestrians. But the demands of the times are calling for a further extension and the current of trade is steadily blowing in the direction of State avenue, where it is an open secret that ten two story buildings will be built in the spring. Long before the verdant green returns to our grassy fields, Alamosa town lots will be a valuable property and a gilt-edged security, but just now on the edge of December snows and the January frosts, the price at which they are offered is far below the appreciation and attention which Alamosa is obtaining on the outside. Almost daily some new business enterprise is started here and never without a satisfactory return. Our increasing population will find room here and prosper in the bright climate of Colorado. Well may Alamosa deserve her title of the Queen City of San Luis as she grows in beauty under the smiles or snows of her eternal hills, while the whispering wooing of her name is calling to the tiller of the barren fields of New Jersey, the snowy plains of Minnesota, or the malarial swamps of Missouri to leave their cares and troubles at the threshold of the West.

The streets of Alamosa are wide and spacious. There is no over-crowding, no grudging of rooms, and the class of buildings which are now erected have driven to the confines the shanty of the old happy-go-lucky days. The Masonic Block and Temple on Fifth street is a structure of commanding solidity which has not only large reception rooms, a magnificent lodge room and a brilliant banqueting hall, but also contains the well arranged postoffice, the office of the Courier and the other rooms, stores and accommodations. There are sixty members here in the Masonic lodge, a number which emphatically endorses the prosperity of the fraternity. Opposite the Masonic Temple the Odd Fellows’ Hall, a building of the same calibre and architectural design forms the abode and shrine of real estate. Lots on Fifth street promise to become excellent property. Probably the largest edifice on State avenue at present is the Armory Hall which affords a drill room for the popular militia company of Alamosa, glitters with the lights and beauties of the ball room, or affords accommodations to the large audiences of Alamosa on the occasion of a play or opera on its ample and electric-lighted state.

In these days of railroad extension or rumor new towns are springing up like mushrooms wherever the smoky trail of an engine or the rushing train gives a glimpse of something from a distance, for a moment, to the curious native, the next leaves him forlorn to gaze after the retreating cars and settle down to wait patiently for next day and this one poor amusement in the monotonous sea of routine. There may be money behind these enterprises, but it is money in many instances meant only; as a decoy to capture gold dollars for silver and (to use a western metaphor) in roping in by false hopes a deluded population to heel its promoters in a different manner. Alamosa is no mushroom town, no product of a night, no imagination of the fertile brain of the boomer or the paper product of printer’s ink. Alamosa’ growth has been sterling, steady and substantial. In 1878, just after the trains had begun to thunder down the declivity of Veta Pass to the flowery but now faded city of Garland, and the wide-horned, wild-eyed Texas steer started in surprise at the sight of the engine which brought with it a new civilization and the day of doom for his scraggy anatomy. Governor Hunt, President of the Denver and Rio Grande Construction Company, first laid out Alamosa down here among the alamo trees, and for three years Alamosa became the terminus of the road till it was pushed through to Conejos, Champa and Espanola. Alamosa was next chosen as a divisional headquarters and machine shops were erected and other improvements brought about. The branch extended to Monte Vista and Del Norte and the late Villa Grove extension has still further contributed to the centrality of Alamosa. The depot buildings are large, commodious and amply provide for the immense amount of passenger and freight travel daily handled.

Alamosa has long been an incorporated town. The present corporation consists of the following prominent citizens: H. I. Ross, of the First National Bank, mayor; and councilmen C. M. Ball, J. A. McDonald, M. B. Colt, C. L. Miller, M. C. Taylor and Frank Ruby. Their civic cares, in view of the present growth of the city, are no sinecure, and they occupy with dignity and dispatch the honorable place to which they have been called by their fellow townsmen, and the duties it involves. The legal and medical professions are also well represented in Alamosa.

There is an industry which it is hoped will be introduced in the near future. Down south a million sheep crop the sweet grasses of New Mexico, and there is as yet no woolen manufactory in Alamosa to handle the snowy fleeces and make them into the garments of humanity. A woolen mill would be of no inconsiderable benefit to the town, and the raw material should also be forthcoming in the Valley for the manufacture of leather.

_______________

Manders Building. - The above named building is without doubt the finest in Alamosa. It is located on the corner of San Juan Avenue and Fifth Street, opposite the First National Bank, and was erected during the present year. It is built of white sandstone, is 56 x 80 feet, and is two stories in height. It contains two store-rooms on the ground floor and twenty office-rooms up stairs. Mr. Robert F. Manders is the owner.

Sol Schwartz. - Among the comparatively new and successful business enterprises of the city of Alamosa none stand out more prominently than the Chicago Clothing House, of which Mr. Sol Schwartz is the proprietor, and which was established August 1st, 1891. He occupies a neat and commodious storeroom, and carries a fine line of clothing in every style, while his line of furnishing goods, notions, neckwear, etc. is not easily duplicated.

C. M. Ball. - The leading drug house of the San Luis Valley is the one of which the above named gentleman is proprietor. Mr. Ball established the business in 1880. The salesroom is particularly neat and pleasing in appearance, reminding one more forcibly of a large city drug store than any other house in this section. Here can be found an exceptionally large stock of drugs, medicines, chemicals, proprietary medicines, perfumes, toilet requisites, as well as a most comprehensive stock of paints, oils, glass, etc,, and a large assortment of the very best wines and liquors for medicinal purposes. The Ball Block, in which this establishment is located, was finished in September of this year, and is one of the handsomest buildings in the city.

The Alamosa Milling and Elevator Company. - The Alamosa Milling and Elevator Company started in business December 1st, 1890. This is the largest and most complete establishment of the kind in the Valley, and has a capacity of 300 barrels per day. They manufacture “Blanca,” “Four Ace” and “Mountain Pink” flour, and are wholesale dealers in hay and grain. The sale of its products is widespread, reaching into the neighboring States and Territories; due, of course, to the superior article of flour this institution has placed upon the market. It expends thousands of dollars annually among the farmers of the Valley, and is prepared to handle all their grain. The officers and directors of the company are: J. K. Mullen, President and General manager; John A. McDonald, Vice President; M. A. Bowen, Secretary; C. H. Wilkius, Treasurer and H. E. Johnson, Resident Manager.

J. Spriestersbach & Co. - The oldest house in the particular line it represents in the San Luis Valley is that of J. Spriestersbach & Co., successors to the Alamosa Hardware Company, which succeeded Alva Adams & Bro. The “Co.” of the firm is the Hon. Alva Adams, Ex-Governor of Colorado, and a gentleman who is one of the best known and most favorably regarded citizens in the State. This firm is not only the oldest in the Valley, but it is also the largest of the kind. They are extensive dealers in shelf and heavy hardware of all kinds, farming implements of the best makes, wagons and buggies, sporting goods of all descriptions, and artesian well supplies. There is nothing in their line that they do not handle. They are also manufacturers of copper, tin and sheet iron ware on an extensive scale.

Bank of Alamosa. - Prominent among the commercial establishments of this city, and one that is ranked as the most substantial agency for providing the community with financial accommodations is the Bank of Alamosa. This bank is a private institution, and is owned by Messrs. Abe and I. W. Schiffer. It was opened for business on July 18th, 1890, under most favorable auspices, and has always been conducted according to the most approved methods of equity and commercial integrity. It does a general banking business, including foreign and domestic exchange, negotiating loans, making collections, etc. Among its correspondents area number of the most prominent banks in this country. The owners of the bank are ambitious, enterprising men, and are gentlemen of the strictest honor and integrity. They have been residents of the Valley eighteen years, having formerly been engaged in the general merchandise business at Del Norte.

Wilbur & Son. - Among the more prominent firms that of Wilbur & Son deserves special mention by reason of the fact that it is a model and representative establishment. The firm is composed of Messrs. J. M. and F. B. Wilbur. They have lived in the Valley nearly four years, and have been in business a little more than one year. They are blacksmiths and wagon makers and dealers in all kinds of wagon and carriage material. They are thoroughly proficient in their line and control a very extensive patronage, all earned through the excellent class of work they turn away from their establishment.

First National Bank. - The First national Bank of Alamosa is the successor to the Bank of San Juan, which was organized in 1876, and has been doing business under its new charter since 1884. The First National’s authorized capital is $100,000, of which $50,000 has been paid in. The officers are: H. I. Ross, President; John L. McNeil, Vice-President; Wm. F. Boyd, Cashier and W. H. Mallett, Assistant Cashier. Its officers are men of business penetration and judgment, and the business of the institution is conducted on safe, conservative principles. It is eligibly located, and occupies elegant quarters, with the finest of office equipments. The fire proof vault is very roomy and the safe represents the very best of steel, burglar proof work. It is a bank of deposit, and special attention is given to preserving the accounts of business men. Interest is allowed at a very fair rate on time deposits. Loans are negotiable at reasonable rates, and satisfactory treatment is guaranteed to all customers. Drafts may be had upon all the principal cities, and exchange - foreign and domestic - is bought and sold. It is the aim of the management to afford every possible facility to customers in the transaction of business.

George A. Willis. - The subject of this sketch has been in the real estate, loan and insurance business several years, and has handsomely fitted-up rooms in the Masonic block on Fifth street. He is recognized as an authority on the value of property in all parts of the city and Valley, and investors who are guided by his judgment and advice may rely on securing property that will yield a handsome in come and rapidly increase in value. He also possesses excellent facilities for the prompt negotiation of loans. In the insurance line he represents a large number of the best and strongest companies doing business in this State. Mr. Willis is also a collection agent, and all business in that line entrusted to him will receive prompt and careful attention. He solicits correspondence, and furnishes the best of references as to his reliability.

Hellman & Schiffer. - Prominent among the booksellers and stationers of the San Luis Valley is the firm above mentioned, which consists of Messrs. Morris Hellman and David Schiffer, and which succeeded M. V. Gault some four months ago, the length of time Mr. Schiffer has lived in the Valley, while Mr. Hellman has been a resident of the county some seven years. The firm carries the largest stock in its line to be found in the Valley, and which comprises books, periodicals, stationery of all kinds, the finest of confectionery, nuts and fruits as well as a most magnificent assortment of all grades of wall paper, art and fancy goods, notion, etc. Here also may be found a splendid stock of the best brands of cigars, tobaccos, etc. Messrs. Hellman & Schiffer have the exclusive agency for the “San Luis Illustrated,” in Alamosa.

John Frank & Bro. - The establishment conducted by Messrs. John Frank & Bro. had its inception in 1888. Their storeroom presents throughout an attractiveness that never fails to draw the attention of the passer-by, and which on close examination shows a magnificent display of watches, clocks, diamonds, silverware and jewelry in endless variety and kinds. The Messrs. Frank devote their personal attention to the business, thus insuring the most perfect satisfaction to their patrons. This enterprise is well worth the attention of all lovers of the beautiful in art, and is an honor to the city. Mr. Simon Frank is a practical watchmaker and is competent to adjust the most complicated watches that may have gotten out of order. The firm (composed of John and Simon Frank) are also licensed watchmakers to the Denver and Rio Grande. They deal in Navajo and Chama Indian blankets and pottery, and in musical merchandise of different kinds.

S. Slavick. - Six years ago the subject of this sketch came to Alamosa, and at once took a place as one of the town’s leading and most highly esteemed citizens. Two years ago he opened his place on Sixth street, and it is by far the handsomest resort for gentlemen in this part of the country. The fixtures are gems of art, and cost a large sum. Everything about the house is in perfect keeping, being neat, clean and attractive. Here will be found only the very best brands of wines, liquors and cigars, both imported and domestic. A poor quality of goods cannot be bought in this house, as they are not kept. Slavick’s is the popular resort in Alamosa, due to courteous, liberal treatment, and honorable dealing at all times and under all circumstances.

Alamosa Club. - By all odds the most artistic building in Alamosa is the Alamosa Club house, which was erected this year. On the fist floor there are large and splendidly lighted reading an billiard rooms; also an office. On the second floor are the card room and four sleeping rooms. The rooms are without exception handsomely furnished and are large and commodious. The Alamosa Club is composed of the leading men of the town and is quite a factor in the social life of the Valley.

Masonic Temple. - This is one of the finest and most substantial buildings in the San Luis Valley, and reflects the greatest credit upon the Masonic fraternity as well as the town of Alamosa, where it is located. The building was erected in 1887. It is 78 x 80 feet, with warehouses in the rear 75 x 40. The splendid storerooms on the ground floor are occupied by a general merchandise store, drug store, and postoffice and hardware store. In the second story there are six office rooms, handsomely furnished, and occupied by the Blue Lodge, Chapter and Commandery.