In 1880, the town of Durango Colorado was organized to serve the mining community of the San Juan mountains. It was established by the Denver and Rio Grande train line with the main goal of hauling ore down the mountain from Silverton. By the early 20th century most of the mines in the area were closing and it threatened the economy of the Colorado mountain town. Today Durango is home to a thriving arts scene which has not forgotten its rugged western roots.