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Thornton, Colorado

Located in Adams County, Colorado, Thornton was established in 1953. One of Denver's first planned suburbs. Water pipeline highlighted western water wars.
Founded 1953 | Population 148,938 | Peak 148,938 (2024) | County Adams County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Thornton, Colorado

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1942 Military Presence: Military installations became a major part of Thornton's identity and economy.
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1953 Planned Community Founded: Developer Sam Hoffman creates suburb north of Denver.
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2005 Water Pipeline Controversy: 70-mile pipeline sparks water rights debate.
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2020 N Line Rail Opens: Commuter rail to Denver Union Station.
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2023 CO's 6th Largest City: Approaching 150,000.
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Complete Historical Timeline

1942 Government
Military Presence
1953 Business
Planned Community Founded
2005 Politics
Water Pipeline Controversy
2020 Transport
N Line Rail Opens
2023 Business
CO's 6th Largest City

Did You Know?

1
One of Denver's first planned suburbs.
2
Water pipeline highlighted western water wars.
3
CO's 6th largest city.
4
Thornton is located in Adams County, Colorado.
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Thornton was founded in 1953.

Famous People from Thornton, Colorado

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Mike Manning
Actor, Model · Born Apr 12, 1987 · Age 38

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A
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L
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