Silver Cliff (1878, 7,982 feet) was established as a result of silver discoveries in the nearby cliffs. In 1880 Silver Cliff boasted a population of 5,040, twenty-five saloons, twenty groceries, three hotels, and four newspapers. The silver panic of 1893 dealt a major blow, as did several serious fires. In 1929 the final indignity came when the county seat was transferred to Westcliffe. Today this is a hamlet of around 300 residents. Silver Cliff boasts the only geodesic dome bar in the United States, the Silver Dome Saloon and Music Hall (1984, Charles Behrendt), 611 Ohio Street and Colorado 96.
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