While it might not seem old in world history standards, Glenwood Springs is an old town in US standards and it has rich history due to its natural amenities and resources. Promoting and celebrating the interesting history of Glenwood Springs is the new Executive Director of the Glenwood Springs Historical Society, Mark Jensen.
Jensen comes to our historic city from Carson City, Nevada and his experiences in nonprofit administration, fundraising, and celebrating history make him an ideal director for the Historical Society. His first day was June 8 so he has been learning a lot about Glenwood Springs and he was happy to share his enthusiasm and the Society's mission of supporting local history.
The Glenwood Springs Historical Society's offices are housed in the Frontier Historical Museum at 100 Colorado Avenue. It is the former home of the Shumate family who donated the house to the Historical Society in 1904. The upstairs contains the museum and Jensen's office; the basement houses the archives and research library.
The Historical Society has an impressive photography collection as well as artifacts on display in the museum and around town. The Hot Springs showcases photos and artifacts in their lobby and the basement of Bullocks (8th and Grand Avenue) features a stellar exhibit about Doc Holliday. At the Frontier Historical Museum they even have the crown worn by the very first Strawberry Days Queen in 1898! I want to see that.
In addition to maintaining the Museum, the Historical Society works to make history come alive through events such as the annual Ghost Walk tour which is 25 years old. They also host a educational programs and a speakers series. We are just in time to attend one on November 8th at 10:30 AM Glenwood Springs Branch Library (8th and Cooper Streets) featuring Chloe Everett talking about caves and caving in Colorado.
The Glenwood Springs Historical Society provides an excellent and popular Glenwood Springs Walking Tour Guide and a detailed brochure as well as loving caretaking of the Linwood Cemetery. The 50 Cardiff Coke Ovens have recently been donated to the Historical Society. They need preservation and Jensen is seeking community input and financial support to undertake this important task.
Fundraising is always a responsibility for any nonprofit director and Jensen takes this role seriously with an easy manner and a welcoming message. He excitedly promoted the annual Gingerbread House Contest fundraiser which takes place every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving [Black Friday] at the Hotel Colorado. Entry deadline is November 17th [$10]. The entries are then on display at ANB Bank through December 2.
Jensen concluded his presentation with a long list of plans the Board of Directors has for the coming years as well as an invitation to join the Historical Society. Membership is only $35 for an individual annual membership. It's a great way to show your love for Glenwood Springs and be a link in the chain that connects our past stories with our future direction. As the website humbly notes, “Every little bit helps.” Help keep the history of Glenwood Springs alive and well.