About Florence

Overview of Florence

Incorporated in 1887, Florence is a statutory city of 3,800 people located in Fremont County, Colorado. We are situated in Colorado's "Banana Belt" at the base of the Rocky Mountains, alongside the banks of the Arkansas River. Florence's unique location provides for mild winters, allows for numerous agricultural pursuits, and gives our town unique River and Mountain parks- accessible to the public free of charge. 

Named after the daughter of the City's founder Senator James McCandless, Florence is known as the first place oil was discovered West of the Mississippi River and it has a rich history associated with numerous immigrants groups. Florence was home to three railroads and a small depot (used today as a senior center), providing a commercial hub for coal and oil mining activities located in the area. The remnants of this1800's commercial boom are preserved in our charming historic downtown now full of antique and retail stores, as well as an emerging culinary district. In addition to managing normal city services, Florence operates a regional water authority with surrounding coal towns and provides refuse collection services. Florence has a strong sense of community and numerous groups like the Senior Community Center, Rotary, Elks, Chamber of Commerce, Eagles, etc run events throughout the year. Two of our most popular events are the huge Fourth of July Festival- complete with a wet-dry parade- and our Pioneer Day celebration in Mid-September.