2021 HPA Winter Lecture Series

Theme: Colorado Springs: Planning of a Great City

In recognition of the Sesquicentennial (150th) birthday of the City of Colorado Springs, the Historic Preservation Alliance presents three highly educational and entertaining lectures for our annual Winter Lecture Series.

Our founder, General Palmer, was captivated with the Pikes Peak region.  In establishing his City, he borrowed from his family experiences in Philadelphia, earning a Medal of Honor in the Civil War, his business dealings in the railroad and investment arena.  He was also influenced by the emphasis on enlightened urban design of his era.

Building a Better City: Palmers Gift

February 18:  Presented by
Mr. Tim Scanlon

We begin with an overview of Palmer’s unique approach toward creating an ideal environment by incorporating our natural beauty into a highly civilized society.  Presenter Tim Scanlon will present Building a Better City.  He will identify Palmer’s vision of a “grand estate” to be shared with personal friends, and the steady progression of private and civic improvements that created a vibrant community poised to capitalize on the discovery of Pikes Peak gold.

The History of the El Paso Canal

March 18:  Presented by
Mr. John Haney

General William Jackson Palmer, Colorado Springs founder and first “developer” of Colorado Springs, sought to sell lots and create a lush resort on ground that was nothing less than dry desert. To this end, he constructed the El Paso Canal.  The canal helped fulfill his dream and served our City for some 83 years.  The presentation will show how the canal contributed to the city’s early growth and development and what it is used for in today’s world.  

'Tails' of Bribery, Provocation Infidelity

April 15:  Presented by
Mr. Eric Swab

Spencer Penrose had an interest in a system of trails that once encircled Cheyenne Mountain. His motivation was to provide recreational opportunities for the guests of the Broadmoor Hotel. By 1918, the year the hotel opened, the trails had been mapped and named for three friends and associates of Penrose, Henry M. Blackmer, Charles M. MacNeill and Russell K. Dougherty. This presentation will explore the social prominence and frailties of these three men.

Our member supported non-profit organization has grown over the past 25 years since our launch in 1999 to become the leading voice for historic preservation in the Pikes Peak region through advocacy, education, events and strategic alliances.

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