1. On July 16, 1879, the first edition of the Denver Post was published. Originally called the Evening Post, it was the first daily newspaper in Denver and became one of the most prominent newspapers in the West.

2. In 1936, the Colorado State Patrol was officially formed on July 16. This law enforcement agency is responsible for enforcing traffic laws, investigating crimes, and assisting other law enforcement agencies across the state.

3. On July 16, 1969, a lightning strike started the Young Gulch fire near Poudre Canyon, which burned over 13,000 acres and forced the evacuation of hundreds of residents. It remains one of the largest wildfires in Colorado's history.

4. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park was officially established by Congress on July 16, 1999. The park encompasses over 30,000 acres of deep, narrow canyons and rugged terrain that attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.

5. On July 16, 2012, two wildfires broke out in Colorado Springs, leading to the destruction of nearly 350 homes and forcing over 30,000 residents to evacuate. The Waldo Canyon fire burned for over two weeks and caused over $450 million in damages.