What is the history of the city of Thornton?
The city of Thornton was incorporated on May 26, 1956, with a population of 8,640. Named after Colorado's former governor, Dan Thornton, the city is located nine miles north of downtown Denver and currently covers approximately 33 square miles.
Thornton is a home rule charter city operating under a council-manager form of government. The City Council consists of the Mayor, elected at large, and eight Council members elected from the City's four wards. The City Council appoints the City Manager, City Attorney, Municipal Judge and various committee and board and commission members.
For further information please call the City Clerk's office at 303-538-7230 or visit the Mayor and Councilmember History (external link) or our History of Thornton Page (external link).