History

Originally inhabited by Ute Native Americans, this area was first explored by the USA in 1853. It was first settled in 1880 by Samuel Wade and William Clark. They named the town after the peony root. By the early 20th century, cowboys ruled the land. Later, the town added coal mining to its ranching and orchard industries.


Historic places in town:

Paonia Opera House 1906

The Bross Hotel 1904

The Coal Miner Statue

Grand Avenue 1918