Museum hosts special program

DEL NORTE — A special historical program “Rio Grande County Museum: Trails, Trappers and Traders-Old Spanish Trail- Geology and Volcanic History SLV and San Juan Mountains,” is being held at the Rio Grande County Museum on Saturday, July 21, beginning at 8:30 a.m. in conjunction with the La Verada del Norte Chapter of the Old Spanish Trail Association.
The program coincides with the opening of the “Trails, Trappers, and Traders” exhibit. Informative short presentations will be made on the early pioneers travelers, and trails of the area by Louise Colville; a brief history of the Old Spanish Trail by Doug Knutson, followed by an overview of the geology of the San Luis Valley, the volcanic history and features of the San Juan Mts. and the Summer Coon Volcanic center due north of Del Norte by Steve Nicolais, retired geologist.
Following the presentations, a half day geologic road tour/field trip led by Steve Nicolais, is offered to those interested in seeing the remnants of the deeply eroded Summer Coon Volcanic center, an eight to 10-mile diameter volcanic complex, just six miles north of Del Norte. Space is limited to 10-12 cars. Carpooling has worked well in past. A Donation of $10 is requested which will be split between the Museum and the La Verada del Norte Chapter of the Old Spanish Trail.
Call the museum at 719- 657-2847 early to reserve a spot on the tour. There are no limitations on the museum exhibit and talks.
Check the Museum’s Facebook page and local news media for more details.