United States Territories 1861-1868

Maps of US territories from 1861 to 1868 highlight dramatic changes, showing a western landscape divided into vast, newly organized territories such as Dakota, Nevada, Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, and Montana. Borders were often provisional and irregular, shaped by Congressional acts as settlers moved west. These maps illustrate the gradual dissolution of larger territories like Nebraska and Utah, marking a dynamic era of territorial reorganization and westward expansion.

Colorado Territory 1861

Colorado became a US territory on February 28, 1861, formed from parts of Kansas, Nebraska, Utah, and New Mexico territories. The discovery of gold in 1858 in the Pike’s Peak region sparked rapid settlement, leading to its territorial status. Denver became the main settlement, while the territory’s economy centered on mining. Colorado’s population was diverse, including miners, settlers, and Native American tribes.

Dakota Territory 1861

Dakota Territory was established on March 2, 1861, covering modern North and South Dakota, and parts of Montana and Wyoming. Created from northern Nebraska and parts of Minnesota Territories, it was vast and sparsely populated, mainly by Native American tribes, fur traders, and a few settlers. The capital was Yankton. The government promoted settlement and infrastructure, but Native resistance and harsh climate challenged development. Later, it was divided into smaller territories.

Washington Territory 1863

In 1863, Washington Territory included today’s Washington state and northern Idaho. It was smaller than its original 1853 boundaries, having lost land with the creation of Idaho Territory that year. Olympia was the capital, and the region remained sparsely populated, with Native American nations, fur traders, and growing numbers of settlers. The economy relied on logging, fishing, and farming, while ongoing settlement and transportation improvements gradually increased population and development.

Idaho Territory 1863

Idaho Territory was created on March 4, 1863, from parts of Washington, Dakota, and Nebraska territories. Initially, it included present-day Idaho, Montana, and most of Wyoming, making it vast and largely unsettled. Lewiston served as its first capital. The economy was driven by gold and silver rushes, drawing miners and settlers. Native American tribes inhabited most of the region, and rugged terrain made travel difficult. The territory was later divided into smaller states and territories.