Near Highlands Ranch, the quiet town of Louviers has an explosive history – literally.
More than a billion pounds of dynamite came out of the Louviers Works factory in the twentieth century, for things like mining and transportation. And it started in 1906 when the Du Pont company acquired Toluca, Colorado, renamed it and established the company town of Louviers.
Workers and their families got cheap housing, recreational facilities and a doctor. The work was dangerous – deadly explosions, and for some workers, ill health from handling chemicals. When demand for dynamite dropped in the 70s, Du Pont sold its properties to residents and turned the town administration over to a newly formed council. Louviers Works officially closed in the 80s – the longest-operating of Du Pont’s dynamite plants.
About Colorado Postcards
Colorado Postcards are snapshots of our colorful state in sound. They give brief insights into our people and places, our flora and fauna, and our past and present, from every corner of Colorado.
