about steve's original
SALIDA'S STORIES DESRVE TO BE TOLD RIGHT.
Local stories. Researched here. Told here.
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Steve's Original Salida Walking Tours was founded in 2018 by historian, author, and broadcaster Steve Chapman preserve and share the remarkable stories of Salida and the Arkansas Valley.
SINCE 2018
35,000 + GUESTS
1,200 + 5-STAR REVIEWS
6 BOOKS
IT STARTED WITH THE STORIES
More than a decade ago, Steve became fascinated by Salida's past. He spent years researching old newspapers, historic photographs, maps, records, and oral histories. He talked with locals, explored archives and stood in the places where history actually happened.
The more he uncovered, the more he realized Salida's stories were too good not to share - where they happened.
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the stories come from salida.
so does the research.
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NEWSPAPER ARCHIVES
Decades of articles, reports, and local stories.
HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS
Vistual history that brings the past to life.
PUBLIC RECORDS
Following the paper trail of people and events.
ORAL HISTORIES
Stories presented by the people who lived it.
CEMETERY RECORDS
Unearthing names, lives, and connections.
MAPS & FIELD RESEARCH
Digging deep for actual locations and details.
Historian, author, broadcaster, and Salida local, Steve Chapman brings Salida's dark past to life with a mix of history, humor, and deep respect for the people who lived it. Limited schedule.
Author of the Salida True Crime series
Award-winning podcaster
Thousands of tours led • Over 35,000 guests
Author of the Salida History series
Salida's storyteller since 2018
Award-winning radio producer
salida's storyteller
steve chapman
steve's stories
have traveled
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the tours the locals take
"Every time I tour with Steve I learn more about Salida - history, crime, ghosts. So much in such a small town."
- Timothy, Salida, CO
"I grew up here and learned things I never knew about my own city. How cool is that?"
- Michelle S., Salida, CO
"I've lived in Salida over 20 years and learned this on his tours I had no idea about."
- Michael, Salida, CO
ready to HEAR salida'S STORIES?
live with steve or SELF-GUIDED AUDIO TOURS
The stories are waiting.