Welcome to Colorado Travel News Sunday, Apr 20 2008
Colorado Campgrounds, Camping, Colorado, Dude Ranches, Entertainment, Lodging, Outdoor adventures, White Water Rafting 6:57 pm
Please post about your Colorado experience or ask questions about Colorado Travel
dino3535
April 23, 2008 at 12:55 pm
The best fishing is in the North Park area. Yampa and Steamboat Springs are my go to spots.
April 23, 2008 at 3:31 pm
I’ve always liked the Gunnison Country… the East River between Crested Butte and Almont is TRUELY outstanding! Not far from there the Tail waters of the Taylor Resevoir are ledgendary… Trout 3 feet long… NO, I’m not pulling your leg! Some of the best fly fishing in Colorado!
You can find out more about the area at
http://www.TravelSOS.net Click on the Colorado-Journeyer link to go straight to the fishing, hunting, horseback, riding etc.
April 23, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Did anyone hear about the mysterious UFO over Phoenix, AZ the other nite?
If you are going there check out this site…
http://www.travelsos.net/arizona-journeyer/index.cfm
April 24, 2008 at 4:07 am
Do they have stripper bass in Blue Mesa?
April 27, 2008 at 4:38 pm
I don’t think so…. but the State Record lake trout was caught last year at 52 pounds… don’t know how long it was but nearly as long as the guy holding it in the picture!
There are Pike, and Kokanee Salmon, lake trout, rainbows and browns….
April 27, 2008 at 4:49 pm
Please take a look at our latest Historic project:
http://www.beebedrawhistorical.com/
We have plans afoot to build a trapper era fort to house one of the largest and most complete collections of reference material on the subject.
The Joseph R. Walker collection is a tribute to America’s most important and successful mountain man.
http://www.JosephrWalker.com
Operating as a non-profit entity we will be focused on using the re-created town of Beebe Draw and Fort Joseph Walker to display the history and heritage on the high plains of eastern Colorado.
We encourage everyone to become an ally of the Beebe Draw Historical Society and help us to make this offering a world class facility. There are no competetors only friends we haven’t made yet!
Included in our plans will be tent camping and RV units
April 28, 2008 at 5:31 pm
Elbridge Gerry, born July 18, 1818 - died April 10, 1875. “The Savior of Colorado”, this heroic story has been neglected and
deserves it’s place in the annals of Colorado history.
Elbridge Gerry was born in Massachusetts much of Gerry’s early life is not known. It is reported that he sported a tattoo of a
ship on his arm and when questioned merely stated it was the secret of his life. It is also noted that their may be some family
connection with the signator of the Declaration of Independance and Vice President of the United States from Boston of the
same name, Elbridge Gerry. It would have been a natural progression for young men of that social stature in Boston at that
time to sign on with trading ships sailing for hides on the west coast.
It is known that Elbridge worked for the Sublette brothers, as well as the Bents and the American Fur Trading Company during
the early fur trapping years. There are very few records remaining from that period so his exact movements during these early
years are not known. As the demand for beaver pelts declined, Gerry settled near Fort Laramie and established a trading post
on the North Platte. It was during this time that Elbridge would marry a Sioux woman as was customary among many of the
early fur trappers, to do so was a sign of high rank and acceptance among the native tribes. Many notable trailblazers had
Indian wives including Joseph Walker and Kit Carson.
Around 1853, he moved south and establish a trading post and ran a horse farm. This residence was at the mouth of Crow
Creek as it emptied into the South Platte River about 10 miles east of present day Greeley. His long established business was
that of a “suttler”, a general store of the day, and he traded with the local Native Americans obtaining pelts in exchange for
blankets, beads, kettles, knives, etc. An employee named William W. McGaa, also known as Jack Jones, was later to
become recognized as one of the founders of the city of Denver. McGaa, was very likely a trapper for some time before he
became an Indian trader. By the summer of 1858 McGaa was in partnership with “Blackfoot” John Smith. The two men had a
large stock of Gerry’s Indian trade goods which they were trading at a location near the confluence of Cherry Creek and the
South Platte River. At the time both men were trading for Elbridge Gerry. By this time the three men had been in a long
association between Blackfoot John Smith and the Bent & St. Vrain Company, it is also quite possible that McGaa had been
employed earlier with the Bents.
On September 24th, 1858, McGaa and Smith were joined by six gold prospectors in organizing the St.Charles Town Company
at the mouth of Cherry Creek. Almost immediately most of the prospectors decamped for other locations. Soon thereafter
another party of prospectors arrived and convinced McGaa and Smith to join them in organizing the town of Auraria on the west
side of Cherry Creek. Then on November 16th, 1858 another party under William Larimer arrived and convinced McGaa and
Smith to join them in organizing the Denver Town Company.
In 1863 Governor Evans of Colorado once again called upon Elbridge Gerry to assemble the nearby tribes for a treaty. Gerry’s
services had been used previously to arrange meetings with the hard to contact roving bands of Northern and Southern
Cheyenne and Arapahoe due to growing tensions.
As the Governor explained:
“This E. Gerry was acquainted with all the leading men of both the Arapahoe, Cheyenne and Sioux tribes of Indians, and
consequently being a very intelligent man, was a very valuable assistant to me in negotiations with the Indians”.
With a four-mule-team of goods, Elbridge tried to induce these individual bands into a meeting with representatives for a treaty.
The tribes message was clear, as it turns out a successful buffalo hunt had filled their stomachs. Their scouts claimed the
buffalo would last a hundred years and the local tribes were determined not give up their hunting grounds.
In 1864 tensions grew as raids by the Native Americans continued along the South Platte River. Two relatives of Gerry’s wife
arrived and warned Elbridge to take all his belongings and leave. In three days, they stated, 800 to 1,000 well armed warriors
would divide into smaller parties and attack all of the outlying stage stops and ranches simutaneously. Their plan was to cut all
the telegraph lines, take all the supplies, then march on Denver reassembled and kill every last inhabitant. Gerry mounted his
horse and rode 65 miles to Denver warning people along the way. He arrived in the middle of the night on the second day
exhausted - some say he was more dead than alive. The Governor assembled every man who owned a gun, telegraphed the
settlements which could be reached and sent all the troops he could spare to the Overland Stage stop of Latham just east of
Greeley.
The Indians called off their all-out assualt when they discovered that Denver, Fort Latham and the settlements were prepared
for the attack. Elbridge Gerry, the “Paul Revere of the High Plains”, had averted a certain disaster.
Unfortunately, the Indians found out that it was Gerry who had signaled the alarm. As a punishment for the next year, they
constantly raided his ranch and trading post stealing over 160 horses and mules. The local people forgot his heroic ride and the
territorial government only compensated him $7,650 for $30,600 worth of losses.
He stayed at his ranch at the north end of the Beebe Draw ( http://www.BeebeDrawHistorical.com ) and became successful at a number of different business activities.
Elbridge continued to breed and raise fine horses, open the Gerry House Hotel in Evans, CO and made other investments in
northeastern Colorado.
The Rocky Mountain News newspaper gave the following tribute upon his death:
Never was a man, however humble, turned away from the old man’s door, and not a cent would he ever take from a friend or
stranger for any service he could render. His generosity joined hands with bad luck in keeping him poorer than many less
deserving men…… He loved a horse, and until his heath failed him a few months ago, it was a pleasure to see him ride, for few
men, young or old, could sit on a horse more gracefully. Honorable in all his dealings, almost childlike in his confidence in
others, ready and glad to help whenever help was needed. “Little Gerry” has left many a friend to mourn his loss.
Elbridge Gerry is buried in the small family cemetery overlooking his former ranch.
His grave is on the east side of Weld county road 61, on the north side of the platte river, just before you come to the cattle
guard.
Elbridge Gerry another unsung hero of the old west!
April 29, 2008 at 2:22 am
Boy… that was long winded! LOL… good article though
May 2, 2008 at 7:43 pm
We are looking for investors and volunteers to help us bring the Beebe Draw project forward!
Our goal is to preserve our little corner of American history with Fort Joseph Walker, http://www.travelsos.net/index.cfm?var_file=mountain-men/walker/captain-joseph-walker.htm including a trappers fort housing one of the the best collections of research material on the fur trapping era. Along with the Fort we plan to include an authentic Indian Village and Old West town of Beebe Draw preserving the rapidly vanishing buildings that represent our high plains heritage.
We plan a Lecture series and historic recreations depicting the exploration and settlement of the South Platte and Beebe Draw areas in Northeastern Colorado.
All contributions will be gratefully accepted… LEND US A HAND!
Beebe Draw Historical Society
20418 Weld Co. Rd. 46
LaSalle, Co. 80645
May 4, 2008 at 5:09 pm
For the best hiking, jeeping and scenery come to Ouray, Colorado in the San Juan Mountains.
May 24, 2008 at 8:31 am
Subject: Clocktower Show Announcements
Date: May 22, 2008 10:00 AM
THIS WEEKEND
Friday May 23rd Eddie Turner Band
“Scorching”, “polyrhythmic” and “chilling”
His ethereal style is an amalgam of the Afro-Cuban rhythms of his heritage,
Chicago blues, jazz, R&B and psychedelic rock.
8:00 show Doors 7:00
This Saturday
May 24th DOUBLE BILL
Lannie Garrett’s Disco Party
and Ron Ivory’s Motown Revue
A nostalgia and fun. Motown: The Temptations, Jacksons,
Smokey, Marvin and more followed by Lannie and her amazing band:
Platforms and Polyester Disco Revue–campy, party fun!
8:00 show Doors 7:00
Convenient Parking Steps from our front door:
Take Lawrence St.–turn right into the Park Central Garage, just past 15th St. Only $5.
Clocktower Entertainment | 16th Mall at Arapahoe | Denver | CO | 80202
June 27, 2008 at 3:29 pm
6/23/2008
Colorado State Parks
Discover Eldorado Canyon State Park and share your memories through pictures
Eldorado Canyon State Park invites photographers to participate in the 6th Annual Eldorado Canyon State Park photography contest
ELDORADO SPRINGS, Colo.� Eldorado Canyon State Park invites photographers to participate in the 6th Annual Eldorado Canyon State Park photography contest. Eldorado Canyon is looking for outstanding photos of rock climbing and general photography featuring the people and places of Eldorado Canyon in all seasons.
Visit the canyon, bring a camera and snap away. The winning photo could be featured in the park’s educational and or promotional displays and materials. Photos taken prior to this contest are eligible and entries must be received by July 7. Best in Show and category winners will receive great prizes. The guidelines have changed, so entrants should review the official contest rules before submitting photos. Plan to come to the park visitor center and help judge the photographs on display from June 27 to September 14. Winners will be announced no later than September 22.
To obtain entry forms and for more information on this contest, sponsored by Mike’s Camera, call the park at (303) 494-3943 or visit http://www.parks.state.co.us and select Eldorado Canyon State Park.
Attracting more than 11 million visitors per year, Colorado’s 41 State Parks are a vital cornerstone in Colorado’s economy and quality of life, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks manages more than 4,000 campsites, 57 cabins and yurts, encompassing 246,000 land and water acres. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit http://www.parks.state.co.us.
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Colorado State Parks
June 28, 2008 at 8:28 pm
“It’s a real gift to know there’s a place we can go to feel the peace and serenity of singing pines and real adobe walls.”
Merilee & Jere. Boulder, CO
The Inn at Cascade is a distinguished 1929 southwestern style Colorado bed and breakfast inn located in the scenic Rocky Mountains near Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs and Woodland Park, CO. Nestled in the pines with sweeping mountain views at the base of Pikes Peak, the inn is the perfect lodging accommodation for secluded romantic getaways, special occasions and Colorado vacations.
This romantic Cascade, Colorado bed and breakfast is decorated in a mix of Native American and Spanish folk art with architectural elements such as adobe walls, kiva fireplaces, log beam vigas and hardwood floors, conveying a warm Santa Fe style of hospitality.
Pamper yourself in one of three inviting yet elegantly appointed guest suites, offering plush beds draped in handcrafted southwestern bedding, private baths and fireplaces. Awake each morning to a memorable full gourmet breakfast featuring southwestern and traditional cuisine, while enjoying the company of fellow guests and planning your day’s adventures.
Visitors to the Pikes Peak region will enjoy a variety of outdoor activities during their Colorado vacation including Garden of the Gods, Pike National Forest , Mueller State Park and Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy whitewater rafting through the Royal Gorge on the Arkansas River in nearby Canon City, Colorado. An absolute must is a journey to the 14,115 foot summit of Pikes Peak, inspiration for “America the Beautiful”. Sit back and relax as you take in the spectacular scenery on the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway or for the more daring, drive the breathtaking Pikes Peak Highway. While staying at our unique Colorado bed and breakfast, a wonderful alternative to hotel lodging, you’ll also want to explore other nearby attractions; such as the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Olympic Training Center, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Seven Falls, Cave of the Winds and Manitou Cliff Dwellings. There is also plenty of shopping and dining in the quaint historic districts of nearby Manitou Springs and Old Colorado City.
When visiting the CO Pikes Peak region, near Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs and Woodland Park, choose The Inn at Cascade as your lodging accommodation for a relaxing vacation retreat. Experience southwestern hospitality in the Colorado Rocky Mountains and consider enhancing your stay with one of our unique B&B special packages.
Guest Comments
We had such a pleasant stay while in Colorado, The Inn at Cascade is just terrific…you have done a wonderful job to make it cozy and friendly. But the best was your wonderful breakfasts!
Chris & Dennis, Scottsdale AZ.
We truly enjoyed our stay at your romantic B&B. It’s a beautiful place and we really miss waking up to the mountain views! We also miss your delicious breakfasts!
Sue & Vince. St. Louis, MO.
The Inn at Cascade is an all-time favorite…we’ve been there many times and will return regularly. We have found that there is simply no option but to totally relax when here…work and/or stress are not realities at the inn…it is a real gem.
Spencer & Jill. Denver, CO.
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The Inn at Cascade is proudly featured in the newly published travel guide “Colorado’s Best Bed and Breakfasts”, from Fulcrum Publishing. “The Inn at Cascade is one of the few adobe bed and breakfasts in Colorado, perfect for people looking to stay in a B&B with a southwestern touch.”
The Inn at Cascade is a proud member of:
Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce
Pikes Peak Country Attractions Association
Colorado Bed and Breakfast of the Pikes Peak Area
Authentic Bed & Breakfast Inns and Cottages of the Pikes Peak Region
July 5, 2008 at 1:10 am
Black Canyon - Gunnison Colorado
Did You Know?
The Painted Wall is the highest cliff in Colorado. From river to rim it stands 2250 feet (685 meters), and is 1000 feet (304 meters) taller than the Empire State Building.
July 22, 2008 at 3:15 am
Always good to read about baseball and its players, I’ve played since a kid..
Can I ask though - how did you get this picked up and into google news?
Very impressive, is it something that is just up to Google or you actively created?
Obviously this is a popular blog with great data so well done on your seo success..