The Chieftain was established in 1868 by Dr. Michael Beshoar, the first doctor in Trinidad, Colorado.

Wilbur Fisk Stone and George A. Hinsdale were the first two editors.

The two companies merged and operate under the Gannett brand.

[3] In June 2023, Gannett announced that its printing plant in Pueblo would be shut down permanently in August.

[4] In June 2024, the newspaper announced it will switch from carrier to postal delivery.