Welcome to Rio Grande Co.

Rio Grande Fuel Co. founded in Denver, Colorado in 1893 by Erik Peterson established its roots by supplying coal, hay and feed to Elmer’s West side neighbors. On November 5, 1908 twenty-year old Elmer Peterson purchased the business becoming the sole proprietor of the Rio Grande Fuel and Feed Company, and the modern company formed. In 1946 Elmer’s son Don joined the business becoming company President in 1958. Today operating as Rio Grande Co. under the leadership of Bruce Peterson, our 4th generation local and family owned business continues to supply quality building materials and exceptional service to the Colorado construction market.

We began our proud tradition of community service in 1905 when Erik G. Peterson helped found the original Swedish Consumptive Sanatorium in Denver. Currently known as Swedish Medical Center, three generations of the Peterson family sat on the hospital board. Today, giving back, both monetarily and in-kind through our customers and own efforts, we strive to bring positive change to the communities we serve and the people who live there, because we care.

Partnership, our greatest strength remains at the center of our core values. In the spirit of collaboration we form long lasting and mutually beneficial partnerships with our customers, employees, vendors and community adding value with honesty and sincerity. The strength of our partnerships span generations defining our success.