The remarkable Red Rock Canyon Open Space stands today as a testament to the power of partnership and extensive community support. Its preservation is a story woven from the contributions of numerous dedicated entities, all committed to safeguarding this natural treasure for generations to come. This open space, a jewel in Colorado Springs, wouldn’t exist in its current protected form without the collaborative efforts of citizens, local governments, and conservation organizations.
A Collaborative Effort in Conservation
The list of partners who played a crucial role in the preservation of Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a roll call of community dedication. Key contributors include:
- Citizens of Colorado Springs, whose grassroots support and advocacy were fundamental.
- City of Colorado Springs TOPS (Trails, Open Space and Parks) Program, providing vital resources and commitment from the local government.
- City of Manitou Springs, recognizing the regional importance of the space and contributing to its preservation.
- El Paso County, adding another layer of governmental support and regional perspective to the conservation efforts.
- Friends of Red Rock Canyon, a dedicated group working tirelessly on the ground to support and enhance the open space.
- Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), a significant state-level partner providing funding and expertise for outdoor recreation and conservation projects.
- The Palmer Land Trust, a regional land conservation organization instrumental in securing and protecting the land.
- The Trails and Open Space Coalition, advocating for trails and open spaces across the region and contributing to the broader vision.
- The Trust for Public Land, a national organization that played a critical role in the land acquisition and conservation process.
This diverse coalition highlights the widespread recognition of Red Rock Canyon Open Space’s value and the collective will to ensure its protection.
Echoes of the Past: The History of Red Rock Canyon
The story of Red Rock Canyon stretches far back into history, with evidence of human activity dating back to 7000 B.C. during the Archaic Stage. The area’s advantageous location near Fountain Creek, coupled with its abundant wildlife, made it an ideal settlement site for early inhabitants. This rich natural environment has attracted life for millennia, making the canyon a place where history is deeply embedded in the landscape itself.
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From Quarry to Open Space: An Industrial Transformation
In more recent history, during the late 1800s, Red Rock Canyon became a vital source of building materials for Old Colorado City and surrounding communities. The canyon’s quarries yielded gypsum, building sand, and sandstone blocks, resources essential for the rapid growth of the region. The Kenmuir Quarry, a prominent site during this era, operated seven days a week to meet the high demand for stone. However, as the 20th century dawned, the shift towards concrete and steel in construction led to a decline in demand for quarried stone, eventually forcing the Kenmuir Quarry and others to close. This industrial past has left its mark on the landscape, creating unique geological features that are now part of the open space’s character.
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The Colorado-Philadelphia Company Mill: Gold Rush Era Relic
Adding another layer to the canyon’s industrial history, the Colorado-Philadelphia Company Mill opened in 1886. Strategically located, it processed ore transported by train from the bustling gold mines of Cripple Creek. For a time, it stood as the largest mill of its kind in the United States, a testament to the scale of gold mining operations in the region. Its prominence continued until the early 1900s with the construction of the newer and even larger Golden Cycle Mill, marking a shift in the landscape of ore processing in the area.
The Bock Family’s Vision and the Path to Preservation
In the 1920s and 1930s, John George Bock acquired the Red Rock Canyon property, later passing it on to his two sons. John S. Bock, the elder son, remained on the land until his passing in 2002. The Bock family envisioned ambitious development plans for the property, including a resort community complete with a convention center, high-rise towers, commercial spaces, and a golf course. Despite these grand aspirations, only limited development materialized, including a few residences, outbuildings, a mobile home park, a landfill, and two gravel quarries. Ultimately, in 2003, the City of Colorado Springs purchased the Red Rock Canyon property, marking a pivotal moment that shifted its destiny towards public open space and conservation.
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Red Rock Canyon Open Space: A Legacy of Conservation
Today, Red Rock Canyon Open Space stands as a remarkable example of successful conservation and community collaboration. From its ancient roots as a settlement location to its industrial past and finally its preservation as public land, the canyon embodies a rich and varied history. The dedication of numerous partners and the unwavering support of the community have transformed this unique landscape into a cherished open space, ensuring its natural beauty and historical significance are protected for all to enjoy. Red Rock Canyon Open Space is more than just a park; it is a living testament to the power of collective action in preserving natural and historical treasures.
