Program: Rick Crandall and the Colorado Freedom Memorial --25 Years in the Making and More to Come
2024-09-16 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Denver) | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Monday, September 16, 2024
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program.
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$5 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

On May 30, 2000, Rick Crandall broadcast his morning radio show from the American Cemetery above Omaha Beach in Normandy, France. After the four-hour program the equipment was packed up and the thank-yous were shared and then Rick took one last walk through the cemetery not realizing he would be carrying something home with him and it was something he couldn’t shake.
For the last 25 years the Colorado Freedom Memorial and Rick Crandall have been synonymous. What started as an idea after a radio broadcast from France has become one of the most unique military memorials in the country, and it’s about to get bigger!

This is the first memorial in America dedicated to ALL wars, ALL branches of service and containing the names of all those who died from a single state in those wars.

The Colorado Freedom Memorial is located in Aurora, Colorado near Buckley Air Force Base. Constructed of glass panels that reflect Colorado’s mountains and blue skies the Memorial holds the names of over 6,000 Coloradans killed or missing in action. They are grouped by war, but names will not be alphabetically listed. Much of the Colorado Freedom Memorial is meant to reflect the chaos of war, including the shuffling of names.

PRESENTER: RICK CRANDALL

For 30 years Rick was the host of the Breakfast Club on AM 1430, KEZW and during that time built a close relationship with the veteran community. In 2012 Rick was named the Colorado Broadcaster of the Year for his work on the air and with numerous nonprofit organizations. It is, though, the Colorado Freedom Memorial that is closest to his heart.
PARTNER TABLES AND EVENTS

Christopher M. Falkel American Legion Post 1260 Will be on hand to Present and Retire the Colors. Post Commander Joe Langran will give a brief update on the name change of the Highlands Ranch Post to the Christopher M. Falkel American Legion Post 1260.
There will also be a table with information about the Highlands Ranch Veterans Monument.

Tour: Flying W. Ranch Chuckwagon Dinner and Western Stage Show
2024-09-12 16:30 - 21:30 | FLYING W RANCH, Colorado Springs
Flying W Ranch Chuckwagon Dinner and Original Western Stage Show
Thursday Sep 12, 2024 ~ 4:30p-9:30p
Includes dinner, show, and bus transportation to and from Colorado Springs.

A delicious western Chuck wagon spread reminiscent of the hearty meals that “Cookie” served the cowboys on the trail. For over 70 years, the Flying W Ranch has been the home of the only chuck wagon Supper Show in Colorado Springs. Featuring a rousing Western stage show and a classic American chuck wagon meal, the chuck wagon Supper and Original Western Stage Show at the Flying W Ranch are guaranteed to please audiences of all ages.
$75 MEMBERS
$80 NON-MEMBERS
Download 2024 Registration Form HERE and Mail into the Historical Society (must do if paying by CHECK) or pay online below

Denver Mob Tours--SOLD OUT
2024-09-12 10:30 - 14:30, 2024-08-08 10:30 - 14:30, 2024-06-13 10:30 - 14:30 | Gaetano’s Restaurant, 3760 Tejon St., Denver, CO, 80211
2024 Thursdays — October 10 IS SOLD OUT

@ 10:45 am – 2:30 pm

Cost: $55 HRHS members $60 Non- HRHS members
Small group tour to 20 sites in Denver, followed by lunch at Gaetano’s.
Meet at Gaetano’s Restaurant where our Tour Leader Tom will pick us up, and transport us to Denver’s North Side for a driving tour and narration of these sites and people. We finish our tour at Gaetano’s Restaurant, which was owned by the Smaldone family.
Lunch is NOT included in the cost, that is additional for each person. Prix Fixed menu, Red (spaghetti and Meatball) or White (fettuchini alfredo with chicken), soup or salad, bread, non-alcoholic beverage for about $25. Tax and gratuities added on by the restaurant. Alcoholic drinks or dessert are available for additional cost. Expect total cost to be approx. $30.
Download 2024 Registration Form HERE and Mail into the Historical Society (must do if paying by CHECK) or pay online below

Transportation to Gaetano’s is on your own Lunch is on your own, approx. $30

Program: Time Traveling Through Highlands Ranch
2024-08-19 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Photo courtesy of Ai
Travel through Deep Geologic Time across the Highlands Ranch Area

Monday, August 19, 2024
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program.
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$5 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Dr. Donna Anderson, Affiliate Faculty in Geology, Colorado School of Mines, is the presenter. She will be discussing landscape changes and time traveling through HR and Colorado.
Landscape changes over the last 500+ million years will be highlighted in this PowerPoint presentation, which will also include a short video.
Continents came together and split apart several times while traveling from the tropics at sea level to today’s middle latitude and mountain elevations. Each landscape hosted incredibly different and now-extinct plants and animals, leaving behind a rich fossil record, including those in Highlands Ranch.
A short video will show how the plates have changed over the last 4 billion years.
See how Geoscience helps us as a society.
A colleague from the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists will have a display table with rocks and fossils and will be available to answer questions.
ABOUT OUR PRESENTER: DR. DONNA ANDERSON

Dr. Donna Anderson, Affiliate Faculty in Geology, Colorado School of Mines is a semi-retired geologist, working since 1974 in geotechnical engineering in California and later in the oil and gas industry in the western U.S. and internationally. She received a B.A. in Earth Science and Geography at Cal State Fullerton (1974), a M.S. in Geology at UCLA (1980), and a Ph.D. in Geology (sedimentology/stratigraphy) at Mines (1997). Her post-Ph.D. career interwove industry and academia as a consultant and geological advisor in the oil and gas industry, retiring in 2015.
Since 2000, she has been on the faculty in the Mines Dept. of Geology and Geological Engineering as a research professor and Affiliate Faculty. She has taught undergraduate and graduate students in the field, core lab, and classroom and has been on dozens of Mines thesis committees across departments.
Throughout her career Donna has participated in geologic societies, foundations, and local community groups, and is a Past President of the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists and is currently on the Board of the Dinosaur Ridge Foundation. Having moved toward community outreach, she enjoys peeling back the layers of the geologic landscape for the non-geologist.
Dr. Donna Anderson and co-author Paul Haseman recently published Golden Rocks: The Geology and Mining History of Golden, Colorado, a free eBook in the Arthur Lakes digital repository.

Program: Rocky Mountain Ranch UFO Sightings, Government Cover-Ups
2024-07-15 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Monday, July 15, 2024
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program.
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$5 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Join Katie Paige, researcher investigator author, as she shares her latest discoveries concerning the Rocky Mountain Ranch and surrounding areas. She will be discussing the possibility of deep CIA coverups, MKUltra’s LSD mind control programs, sonic and ultrasonic frequency non-lethal military warfare, as well as “talking” laser plasma balls and much more.
Are the phenomena experienced and their UFO/paranormal related, or is it all a ruse intended to distract from the nefarious activities conducted there, or both?
The Rocky Mountain Ranch was investigated by the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization and others in the 1970’s but the activity continues to this day! It is the location of the biggest remote viewing project ever conducted, (even by the CIA and DIA). Many strange activities experienced on the ranch will be shared in this PowerPoint presentation.
Newspaper headlines dubbed the ranch the “Close Encounter Capital of the US”. Rocky Mountain Ranch has been written about in several books. It has been featured on the History Channels: Beyond Skinwalker, Beyond Belief, UFO Witness, Small Town Monsters, and other programs.
ABOUT OUR PRESENTER: KATIE PAIGE

Katie Paige has personal ties to High Strangeness Ranch in Colorado, now known as the “Rocky Mountain Ranch”. In UFO folklore it was known as the “Clearview” Ranch, and pre-dates the infamous “Skinwalker Ranch” by over a decade. This is what motivated her interest in ufology, to find answers to her experiences, and to try and uncover the truth as to what was happening there.
See her on History Channel’s Beyond Skinwalker, UFO Witness, Gaia’s Beyond Belief, Ancient Aliens, Small Town Monsters, On the Trail of UFO’s Night Visitors, and the film Accidental Truth.
Katie, who has a Bachelor of Science in Visual Communication, conducts independent investigations and research through her Rocky Mountain Ranch Research foundation. She has been a presenter at several conferences, has appeared on many radio shows and podcasts, including Coast to Coast, Spaced Out Radio, UAP Studies Podcast, and many more.
Katie is the author of: Letters of Love & Light – Four Decades of UFO Encounters, Experiences & Sightings Shared with Ufologist R. Leo Sprinkle Ph.D.
You will have the opportunity to purchase her book before and after the program, and she will sign it if you would like. $15 Cash or check.

See Katie’s website for more interesting information and testimonials.
Web Site: www.katiepaige.net

TOUR: Douglas County Sheriff– Law Enforcement Training Facility, Firing Range & Vehicle Training Facility
2024-07-12 09:30 - 15:00 | DAD CLARK RTD PARK AND RIDE, 8392 S. Burnley Ct., Highlands Ranch, CO, 80126
Friday, July 12, 2024 @ 9:30 am – 3:00 pm

$60 HRHS Members $65 Non-HRHS Members
Box Lunch and Bus Transportation is INCLUDED!

OR
Download 2024 Registration Form HERE and Mail into the Historical Society (must do if paying by CHECK)
Deputy Brian McKnight, Presenter
Deputy Ryan Falkner, Presenter
Unique opportunity to tour these two premier training facilities here in Douglas County, get some “hands on” experiences and enjoy lunch and transportation to both locations.
The Highlands Ranch Law Enforcement Training facility (HRLETF) is currently used for firearms and other training by approximately 64 city, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies with over 2800 users. The HRLETF also features several civic activities during the year to include the BSA Eagle Scouts, Civil Air Patrol and 4-H clubs. The facility also houses the County Sheriffs of Colorado Association headquarters (since 1999) and NecroSearch International.
With “state of the art” equipment and facilities, it remains the premier law enforcement training facility of the Front Range.
(Note HR History Buffs–this is located in the area of the former Arapahoe Hunt Club)

The CODE 303 Drivers Training facility provides Douglas County and other metro-area public-safety agencies a safe place to teach advanced decision making; proper pursuit driving and pursuit termination; communication while driving; defensive driving; day and night driving, inclement weather skills; vehicle dynamics, and limitations; motorcycle officer certifications; crash investigation training and the most recent approaches to traffic incident management.
Transportation to the HR LETF is via Tour Bus (cost of bus included in tour fee)
Transportation to Bus Meeting Location is on your town.
Meeting Location July 12 at 9:30 am is Dad Clark Park and Ride,
8392 S. Burnley Court, Highlands Ranch
Friday, July 12 9:30 am – 3 pm
$60 HRHS Member $65 non-Member

OR
Download 2024 Registration Form HERE and Mail into the Historical Society (must do if paying by CHECK)

TOUR: Molly Brown House Museum
2024-06-26 10:30 - 12:00 | Molly Brown House Museum, 1340 N. Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO, 80203
Guided tour of the Molly Brown House by June program presenter and Docent Susan Bugbee. Susan will take you on a journey to yesterday with her narration and stories of Molly Brown and the beautiful mansion.
Below–Susan Bugbee as Molly Brown, at the State Capitol

Limited to 15 participants
Afterward join up as a group at nearby Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs for lunch if desired. (yum!) (lunch not included in tour cost)
NOTE: Transportation is on your own to the Molly Brown House and Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs
Wednesday, June 26 10:30 am – 12 pm
$21 HRHS Member $24 non-Member

OR
Download 2024 Registration Form HERE and Mail into the Historical Society (must do if paying by CHECK)

Program: Molly Brown--Facts vs. Fiction
2024-06-17 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Susan Bugbee as Molly Brown at the Denver Capital (photo above)
Monday, June 17, 2024
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program.
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$5 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Is it possible that what you know about Molly Brown is incorrect and incomplete?
Susan Bugbee, Molly Brown House Docent, will share facts vs fiction of Molly Brown, aka Margaret Tobin Brown.
Thirty years after her death, Hollywood made her famous as The Unsinkable Molly Brown. However, their portrayal of her was mostly fiction including the fact that she was never called Molly. Actually, her life was much more impressive.
Susan (as Molly Brown) will share her life, her family, her travels and her philanthropy. She was very involved in improving Denver and was constantly in the news. She was definitely a woman ahead of her time.
ABOUT OUR PRESENTER: SUSAN BUGBEE

Susan Bugbee as Jesse Benton Fremont (above)
Susan Bugbee has always been interested in history, finding truth “stranger than fiction “. She has traveled widely, learning new things everywhere, most recently in Croatia and Peru.
Susan was a Montessori teacher, public school substitute and private nanny. Her love of children and enthusiasm for history has led many young people to develop an interest in history.
She continues sharing her knowledge as a docent at the Cherokee Castle in Sedalia and at the Molly Brown House in Denver. Susan is also a performer with the Legendary Ladies.

SPECIAL TOUR OF THE MOLLY BROWN HOUSE BY DOCENT SUSAN BUGBEE!!
Susan will give a private tour of the Molly Brown House to 15 of our HRHS members! Tentative Date: Wednesday, June 26. Stay tuned for more information.
Be sure to visit with our Program Sponsors before and after the presentation. Specifics coming soon.

Tour: Museum of Outdoor Arts and Fiddler's Green
2024-05-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Museum of Outdoor Arts/Fiddler’s Green Amph., 6331 S. Fiddler's Green Cir., Greenwood Village, CO, 80111
Wednesday, May 22 10 am – 1 pm
$32 HRHS Member $37 non-Member

OR
Download 2024 Registration Form HERE and Mail into the Historical Society (must do if paying by CHECK)

Discover this hidden gem, right in the middle of Greenwood Village! Learn about Marjorie and John Madden, and the development of this quiet oasis. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Marjorie Park, including all of the interesting and new art installations.

Concerts abound in the evenings in the lush amphitheatre, but during the daytime we will have great access during the quiet time, to explore the Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre, where our tour includes the new Living Wall.

Information from the MOA website: “The Museum of Outdoor Arts (MOA) was founded in 1981 by commercial real estate developer, John W. Madden Jr., his wife, Marjorie P. Madden, and their daughter, Cynthia Madden Leitner. MOA is a forerunner in the placement of site-specific sculpture in Colorado. Our art collection is located within various public locations throughout the Denver metro area. From commercial office parks to botanic gardens, city parks and traditional sculpture gardens; art is placed to interpret space as “a museum without walls.” Foremost, MOA believes in its mission of ‘making art a part of everyday life.’.”

Includes Boxed Lunch, enjoy in the beautiful park after the tour. Marjorie Park is only open for special events, tours, or by appointment, so this is a great private opportunity to enjoy the park on a (hopefully!) lovely spring day!

OR
Download 2024 Registration Form HERE and Mail into the Historical Society (must do if paying by CHECK)

Program: “A Colorado Panorama" The Stories Behind the Faces on the Wall
2024-05-20 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Monday, May 20, 2024
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program.
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$5 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Don Morreale’s PowerPoint presentation will tell the story of this controversial 650-foot-long mosaic tile mural (one of the largest murals in the world) on the Welton St. side of the Colorado Convention Center. Don will discuss ‘the big controversy’.
The mural features 168 little-known Colorado historic figures of all genders and ethnicities, historical scenes, and events from 1850 to the late 1980s. Note: The sheets of ceramic tiles were made in N.Y. from photographs.
This presentation will include facts about its creator, artist Barbara Jo Revelle. Don will also mention other tile murals she has done.
Ms. Revelle was the first teacher of photography at CU in the 80s and is currently a Professor Emeritus of Art and Art History at the U. of FL. She lives in Massachusetts.
About the Speaker:
Don Morreale has been a proud resident of Colorado since the age of 14. A graduate of the University of Denver, he holds an undergraduate degree in Comparative Religions, and a Master’s degree in Creative Writing. He is the author of twelve books on topics ranging from Buddhism in America to mini-biographies of oddball local characters. He’s currently working on a four-part series of biographies of early Silk Road pioneers for China Intercontinental Press.

Don’s book on the Colorado Panorama Mural and its creator will be available for purchase and signing. Cash or Check.
Be sure to visit with our Partner Tables before and after the program. Doors open at 6:30 pm for refreshments and visiting.

Program: Becoming an Elvis Tribute Artist plus the Elvis Denver Connection
2024-04-15 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
..
Monday, April 15, 2024
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program.
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$5 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Aaron Black will present a Tribute to Elvis in Concert show (yes, Elvis will be performing!) and then will explain how he became an Elvis Tribute Artist (ETA). Will some lucky ladies in the front row get a scarf or a lei? The program concludes with a history of Elvis in Denver and Aaron will answer questions about ETA’s and Elvis trivia. Are you familiar with the Elvis sandwich?

Aaron Black has been performing his Award-Winning Tribute to Elvis for over 25 years. He has won two “Best-in-Show” awards at the Air Force Talent competitions and many other awards! Aaron has performed in two television commercials (one local, one nation-wide) and in one radio commercial and was a finalist for a recent Apple nationwide commercial.
The 5 Elvis Suits that he currently wears are authentic $4000 recreations of Elvis’ most famous suits, including the Aloha Eagle Jumpsuit worn in the Aloha From Hawaii TV Concert! These suits are created by some of the same people who created Elvis’ original suits and are licensed by Elvis’ estate and were also used in the new “Elvis” movie! He owns three of these Aloha Eagle jumpsuits, two in white and a stunning black version as well! He also performs in the blue “Owl” suit as seen in the movie “Elvis on Tour” and the black, gold and red “Matador” suit. No other Elvis Tribute Artist in Colorado has such an impressive collection of authentic suits!
Aaron always mixes a little humor and Elvis trivia into every hip-shaking show. He is often asked if he is lip-synching, but it really is Aaron singing. He has even performed for two people who knew the real Elvis and both gave him high marks!

Aaron has always been an Elvis fan. As a child, he saw Elvis perform live six times. He met his future wife the day after Elvis died when she asked him about the black armband he was wearing. They became best friends and were married several years later!
Be sure to visit with our Partner Tables before and after the program!

..

Tour: BEHIND THE SCENES AT WINGS OVER THE ROCKIES, HISTORY OF LOWRY
2024-04-08 10:00 - 14:00 | Wings Over the Rockies Museum, 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver, CO, 80230
MONDAY APRIL 8 , 2024 10 am till 2 pm
$37 HRHS Member $42 Non-Member
Inside look at the Wings Over the Rockies Museum, including presentation on the History of Lowry Air Force Base. The Lowry Foundation will also be on hand to provide information about the Walking and Driving Tours and maps.
Includes admission to the museum, boxed lunch and plenty of time left to explore the Museum and Walking/Driving Tour of Lowry on your own.

OR
DOWNLOAD 2024 REGISTRATION FORM HERE and Mail into the Historical Society
(MUST DO if paying by Check)

Program: Samuel Allen Long-A Journey Through His Legacy and Colorado Charm!
2024-03-18 19:00 - 20:30 | Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E. Gateway Dr., Highlands Ranch, CO, 80126, United States
Highlands Ranch Highlight: The Samuel Allen Long Story – A Journey Through His Legacy and Colorado Charm!

Monday, March 18, 2024
Doors Open at 6:00 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and TOUR the beautiful Mansion before the program.
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
HIGHLANDS RANCH MANSION
9950 E. Gateway Dr. Highlands Ranch 80126
$5 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members
Step back in time and uncover the captivating story of Samuel Allen Long, the pioneering homesteader who left an indelible mark on Highlands Ranch, Colorado.
Born in 1827 in Pennsylvania, Long would come to Denver in 1880 and was known for being a real estate mogul along the Front Range.
Join us for an immersive program as we delve into the life and adventures of this resilient figure who tamed the wild frontier and built a legacy that echoes through the ages.
Discover the challenges and triumphs of Long’s homesteading journey, from breaking ground on the rugged landscape to development after his final move to Denver.
Through engaging narratives, historical anecdotes, and visual presentations, we’ll paint a vivid picture of the man behind the legend and how the research is conducted.
Learn about Long’s enduring impact on Highlands Ranch, including the original farm of Rotherwood, and the enduring spirit that continues to shape the region.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a local resident, or simply curious about the tales of Colorado’s past, this program promises to be an enlightening and entertaining exploration of Samuel Allen Long’s extraordinary life.
Staff from the Douglas County Libraries Archives and Local History will also discuss the who, what and why behind using archival collections and what a day in the life of an Archivist looks like. Learn what happens with HRHS Oral Histories submitted to Archives and Local History.

OUR PRESENTER: CECILY NORTH-RUDOW

Cecily North-Rudow, Archivist for Douglas County Libraries, is a Certified Archivist and has worked with Douglas County Libraries for 12 years. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Humanities with an Emphasis in Architecture, Culture and Society from Arizona State University. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Museum Studies from the University of Oklahoma and a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University. In addition to DCL, she has also worked at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum in New York, the Pueblo City-County Library District and the map library at CU-Boulder. She grew up in Douglas County and now lives in Castle Rock with her husband and daughter.

Program: Crafting a New American Presidency- John & Abigail Adams
2024-02-19 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Monday, February 19, 2024 (President’s Day)
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program.
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$5 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Abigail Smith’s mother was distressed that her daughter wanted to marry John Adams, a country lawyer who farmed to support his legal work. But Abigail was determined, and the chronicle of that couple’s life together proved the wisdom of her choice.
Through the tumultuous years of the American Revolution, the Adams raised four children to adulthood. They lived in Paris and London as well as in Quincy Massachusetts, and not only opposed the rule of King George III but also met that King when John served as America’s first ambassador to the United Kingdom.
John Adams became the second President of the United States and Abigail became the first president’s wife to move into the newly constructed White House in Washington, DC.
Mary Sudman Donovan presents the rich lives of our nation’s second president and his wife. Her PowerPoint will be using words from both Abigail and John Adams, and contemporary portraits and illustrations. Join us to hear more of this extraordinary couple’s life story.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKER: MARY SUDMAN DONOVAN
Ms. Donovan is a historian and author. She earned a Ph.D. in American history at Columbia University and has taught American and world history. Having taught for many years at Hunter College of the City University of New York, she now teaches Learners’ Courses at Wind Crest in Highlands Ranch.

Mary was president of the Dobbs Ferry Historical Society in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. She is the author of several books including The Thirteen Colonies Cookbook and George Washington at “Head Quarters, Dobbs Ferry.”
BE SURE TO BROWSE OUR PARTNER TABLES:
BOOKS ARE AWESOME, CHARTER FINANCIAL & CRUISE PLANNERS

Wendy Withers with Books are Awesome www.BooksAreAwesome.org
Rick Martin, CPA with Charter Financial www.cfrusa.com
Heidi Cross with CruisePlanners https://www.yourcruisedoctor.com/

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CANCELED JAN 15 Program: “A Colorado Panorama"
2024-01-15 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Due to the severe and cold weather predicted for Monday, January 15, 2024
This program has been canceled. We hope to reschedule later this year.

Don Morreale’s PowerPoint presentation will tell the story of this controversial 650-foot-long mosaic tile mural (one of the largest murals in the world) on the Welton St. side of the Colorado Convention Center. Don will discuss ‘the big controversy’.
The mural features 168 little-known Colorado historic figures of all genders and ethnicities, historical scenes, and events from 1850 to the late 1980s. Note: The sheets of ceramic tiles were made in N.Y. from photographs.
This presentation will include facts about its creator, artist Barbara Jo Revelle. Don will also mention other tile murals she has done.
Ms. Revelle was the first teacher of photography at CU in the 80s and is currently a Professor Emeritus of Art and Art History at the U. of FL. She lives in Massachusetts.

About the Speaker:

Don Morreale has been a proud resident of Colorado since the age of 14. A graduate of the University of Denver, he holds an undergraduate degree in Comparative Religions, and a Master’s degree in Creative Writing. He is the author of twelve books on topics ranging from Buddhism in America to mini-biographies of oddball local characters. He’s currently working on a four-part series of biographies of early Silk Road pioneers for China Intercontinental Press.

Don’s book on the Colorado Panorama Mural and its creator will be available for purchase and signing. Cash or Check.

Annual Meeting: HRHS Board of Directors
2023-12-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom, Via Zoom
The Highlands Ranch Board of Director’s Annual Meeting.
Current HRHS Members are invited to attend and participate. The Board will present a summary and review of the main activities that occurred in 2023.
Anticipated programs and activities for 2024 will be discussed.
Comments and suggestions from HRHS members is always solicited and encouraged.
Join the Board in celebrating a year filled with educational activities and help guide the future events.

Zoom login information provided closer to the meeting date.

Program: Author Forum and Book Signing
2023-11-20 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Monday, November 20, 2023
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program.
Prize drawing, be sure to get your drawing ticket when you arrive!
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$3 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members
NOTE:
25+ Authors will be available before and during the program for conversation, book sales and signings. Great opportunity to chat with the authors 1:1, meet your (next?) favorite author here! List will be provided with author’s name, type of book/s. Wide variety including cook books, history books, fiction, thrillers, and more!
Payment method may vary by author (cash, check or credit card) Please come prepared!

Douglas County Libraries will also have a table presentation with “goodies” , handouts and information on programs and services.

Authors--Opportunity to Present at November 20 Program
2023-11-20 18:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Are you a published author?? If so, we have an opportunity for you on
Monday, November 20, 2023 at the Highlands Ranch Historical Society Monthly Meeting.
Location is Southridge Recreation Center, 4800 Mc Arthur Ranch Road, in Highlands Ranch.
Click HERE for information about the event, and contact Jean Jacobsen, Program Moderator, for more information and to be considered for this opportunity.

HRHS Board of Director Meeting
2023-11-08 18:00 - 20:00, 2023-10-11 18:00 - 20:00, 2023-09-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom, Via Zoom
The Highlands Ranch Board of Director’s Monthly meeting, held on the Second Wednesday of every month.
Via Zoom.

TOUR: Denver Mob Tour
2023-10-26 10:30 - 14:30 | Gaetano’s Restaurant, 3760 Tejon St., Denver, CO, 80211
Denver Mob Tour

10:30 am -2:30 pm
$50 HRHS Members $55 Non- HRHS Members
SELECT A DATE:
Thursday, October 26

Small group tour to 20 sites in Denver, followed by lunch at Gaetano’s.
Meet at Gaetano’s Restaurant where our Tour Leader Tom Hackett will pick us up, and transport us to Denver’s North Side for a driving tour and narration of these sites and people. We finish our tour at Gaetano’s Restaurant, which was owned by the Smaldone family.
Lunch is on your own, approx. $25
Total time approx. 10:30 am till 2:30 pm
Transportation to Gaetano’s is on your own
NOTE: SPECIFIC INFO RE: MEETING LOCATION DETAILS WILL BE PROVIDED AFTER REGISTRATION

Program: UFOs and the Navajo Rangers ----- Paranormal Cases From the Navajo Nation
2023-10-16 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Monday, October 16, 2023
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$3 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Presenters:
Jonathan Dover, Ranger Lieutenant (Ret.) and Stanley Milford Jr. Ranger Sergeant (Ret.)
This presentation will cover paranormal investigations that were conducted by Jonathan Dover and Stanley Milford Jr. during an 11 year span within Navajo Nation lands located in Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. These include cases involving UFO’s, Bigfoot, Hauntings, and Navajo Skinwalkers. These inexplicable cases were meticulously investigated with a scrutiny that is unheard of these days. During their careers Jonathan and Stanley were exposed to some of the most unbelievable phenomenon known to man. This is a land of rugged beauty, deep legend, and mystery where it seems anything can happen on any given day.
Presenter: Jonathan Redbird Dover
Jonathan Dover is a veteran law enforcement officer. He has worked with the City of Winslow Arizona Police Department, The National Park Service, Navajo Historic Preservation Department, and the Navajo Nation Rangers. He retired from active duty as a Lieutenant in 2011 after 31 years. Jonathan Dover attended the 6-month Navajo Nation Police Academy and graduated with the Marksmanship award, the Academic Achievement award, and the Outstanding Cadet award. He further trained at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Criminal Investigations. Jonathan Dover has over 4,000 hours of law enforcement and weapons training.
The Navajo Nation Rangers are tasked with Natural Resource Law Enforcement in the areas of Forestry, Fish and Wildlife, Mines, Minerals, Parks and Recreation areas, Archaeology, Cultural Resources, Agriculture, Police work, and Search and Rescue.
Jonathan Dover was trained as a specialist in Archaeological Resource Crimes Investigations and was one of only two persons doing those investigations in the western United States. He was also trained as a licensed EMT-Basic, in SWAT tactical operations, Hazardous materials operational first responder, Search and Rescue, Technical accident investigation, computer forensics, and was an instructor in Police Firearms training and High Angle Technical Rescue. He was the Co-Commander of the Ranger Tactical team and an adjunct instructor for several classes at Gunsite Academy.
During his work on Navajo Nation lands, along with his regular duties, he along with Stanley Milford Jr. were assigned over a period of 11 years to officially investigate and document significant cases involving Bigfoot, Hauntings, Navajo Witchcraft, and UFO’s.
Jonathan Dover on his off-time dances at Native American Pow Wows, and in the Apache Tribe of Oklahoma Blackfoot Society (Warrior Society). He has played guitar for 45 years, and is a fly fisherman.
Jonathan Dover is Navajo, Southern Cheyenne, Apache Tribe of Oklahoma (Kiowa-Apache) and Filipino.
PRESENTER: Stanley Milford Jr.

Stanley Milford Jr. spent most of his childhood growing up between rural Oklahoma and the Navajo Reservation. He lived and went to school in Oklahoma, but would spend many summers on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona. He graduated High School in Oklahoma and later graduated from Haskell Indian Junior College located in Kansas. Stan also attended Fort Lewis College in Colorado and the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona. It was while he was at Tucson that he was asked to come back to the Navajo Nation and work as a Navajo Ranger. Stan graduated the United States Indian Police Academy (IPA) at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Artesia, New Mexico and then worked continuously as a sworn law enforcement Ranger for over twenty-three (23) years.
Stan served as a Ranger Recruit, a Ranger and Ranger Sergeant. It was while working as a Sergeant he worked directly with the Chief Ranger in the command section of the department. Stan later served as the Delegated Chief Navajo Ranger for over two (2) years, through March of 2019. Stan served as a department firearm instructor, Team Leader for the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team charged to oversee all special operations. He was also commissioned as a Navajo Police Officer to work as a team member with the Navajo Police’s Drug and Gang Task Force.
One of Stan’s unique responsibilities was overseeing a section called the “Special Projects Unit (SPU)”. It was within this section that Stan worked with Jonathan Dover (Ret. Lieutenant). This section’s primary role was managing cases and projects that were deemed critical, sensitive or high profile in nature. These cases could be anything from high priority investigations, dignitary protection, high risk detail, SWAT or other emergency operations. One of the responsibilities of that unit was the investigation of cases that did not fit within everyday parameters of law enforcement or criminal investigation. Enter the “paranormal or supernatural” i.e. cases involving Bigfoot, UFOs, Extraterrestrials, witchcraft, skinwalkers, ghosts and hauntings. It should be known that these cases were about 1% of the total of cases that were investigated by the SPU each year.
In 2021 Stan decided he needed a change, he had served over twenty-three years as a Navajo Ranger and he had accomplished what he had originally set out to do in law enforcement.
Stanley and Jonathan have been involved with the History Channel’s Skinwalker Ranch and Beyond Skinwalker.
Guest Business: MUFON, Katie Paige
Katie Paige has personal ties to a High Strangeness Ranch in Colorado. In UFO folklore it was known as the “Clearview” Ranch, and pre-dates the infamous “Skinwalker Ranch’ by over a decade. This is what motivated her interest in ufology, to find answers to all her experiences.
Katie is Colorado MUFON’s State Director. She is a STAR Investigator for MUFON and is the team lead/administrator for MUFON’s MARRS Team. She’s the host of MUFON What’s Up Radio Broadcast on KGRADB.com along with her co hosts Shane Hurd and Tara Diulus.
Most recently, Katie can be seen on Travel Channels UFO Witness, Gaia’s Beyond Belief with George Noory, History Channel’s Ancient Aliens, Small Town Monsters; On the Trail of UFO’s Night Visitors, Ron James’s film Accidental Truth and History Channel’s new series Beyond Skinwalker.
Katie also conducts independent investigations and research, she has been a presenter at several conferences and has appeared on many radio shows and podcasts, including Coast to Coast with George Knapp, Spaced Out Radio, UAP Studies Podcast, and Coast to Coast’s Dark Becomes Light, and many more.
Katie is the author of; Letters of Love & Light – Four Decades of UFO Encounters, Experiences & Sightings Shared with Ufologist R. Leo Sprinkle Ph.D. She is currently writing her second book: High Strangeness on a Colorado Ranch; The Colorado “Skinwalker” Ranch – Craft, Cattle, Copters, Cryptids, and Cover-Ups.

TOUR: Rambler Ranch
2023-09-20 10:00 - 15:00 | DAD CLARK RTD PARK AND RIDE, 8392 S. Burnley Ct., Highlands Ranch, CO, 80126
RAMBLER RANCH
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
10 am – 3 pm
$60 HRHS Members
$65 non-HRHS Members
Includes Bus Transportation to Elizabeth, entrance to Rambler Ranch, and a yummy boxed lunch.
Rambler Ranch is pure fun! Rambler Ranch is “the greatest Nash, Rambler, AMC Showcase on Planet Earth”

Set in a beautiful forested section of Elizabeth, this unusual collection of cars, buildings, displays is sure to cause “WOWS” and “Look at this one” and more!
You will receive access to

60,000 square ft. of indoor display space featuring 250 cars,

two appliance show rooms,

a two bedroom mid-century model home,

plus more!

Lunch will be served in the classic diner.

wander the grounds,

visit all or as many of the areas as you like.

Truly a unique experience, good for all members of the family!
More photos and videos at
https://www.ramblerranch.com/team-1
NOTE: Specific details regarding Meeting Location, time, etc. will sent following registration

Program: FACTS AND FUN STORIES ON LIVING IN THE NEW DEVELOPING PLANNED COMMUNITY OF HIGHLANDS RANCH
2023-09-18 19:00 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
Monday, September 18, 2023
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$3 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Fun stories with

Dr. Marvin Beeman, 1957 – 1968, including riding a horse to a one room school with no water;
Philip Scott, first to close on a Highlands Ranch home – rewarded with a steer; and
Gary Dani who worked for Mission Viejo and was involved with many community activities.
They tell great stories on adventures living in a developing community. Enjoy learning the early history of Highlands Ranch from these early residents.

Join us for an enlightening and fun evening.

Program: FYI-Life Upon the Wicked Stage
2023-08-21 18:30 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
(Photo above: Opening night at Vassar Playhouse June 18, 1970. Coming up on 53 years since opening!)
FYI-LIFE UPON THE WICKED STAGE

Monday, August 21, 2023
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$3 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Veda Rogers and her husband followed her dreams resulting in sixteen seasons owning a summer theater in a rural Kansas country barn (the Vassar Playhouse in Osage County, Kansas). Her husband also purchased what became a dinner/theater showboat and then laid tracks around the theater property for a dinner/theater train.
Veda included her children and furnishings in the productions. She kept great ledgers, auditioned and hired professionals and non-professionals, and kept lots of pictures and negatives. These photos and stories of stage plays and musicals will have you remembering great times. Join us for a fun evening and wonderful memories.
ABOUT OUR PRESENTER: VEDA ROGERS
Veda attended the University of Kansas – Voice & Music Education. She taught private voice lessons and was a substitute teacher in the public schools for Winchester, Junction City & Winfield, KS, 1957-1973. She then joined the Southwestern College music faculty as an adjunct instructor for voice & music theater 1973-1978. From 1978-1985, Veda was a Full-time Actress, Accompanist & Business Manager for the Vassar Playhouse.
Veda began a banking career and was Admin. Officer for the Central Bank of Kansas City for 14 years, 1986-2006. When she retired, she established their historic home in KC as the Gladstone Manor Bed & Breakfast.
Veda’s Book, “Life’s About A Dream” was published in 2012 and limited quantities are available for purchase and author signing before and after the program. Cash and check only please.

TOUR: Cherokee Castle with Meg and John--Royalty and VIP focus!
2023-08-09 10:00 - 14:00 | Cherokee Castle, 6113 N Daniels Park Rd, Sedalia, CO, 80135, United States
Cherokee Castle Tour

with Meg and John

Wednesday, August 9

10 am – 1 pm
Box lunch is included

$40 HRHS Members
$45 Non-HRHS Members

Join us for this special, private tour of the Cherokee Ranch Castle, led by Tweet Kimball’s caterer and butler, Meg Anderson and John Lake. Other Docents will be available.

Get the inside scoop on the Castle!
View the beautiful antiques, architecture, and hear stories about Tweet and her escapades over the years. Meg and John will discuss and display items not usually included on regular tours, many focusing on the special topic of Royalty and VIPs at the Castle!

The Castle is a unique treasure in Douglas County, not to be missed. Spectacular views of the front range of the Rockies from the Terrace, windows, and top of the Castle!!

Following the tour, which will last approx. 90 minutes, we will then head back to the Great Hall or the Terrace for lunch (included)

Beautiful views and great company all around!

Transportation to the Castle is on your own.
6113 Daniels Park Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135
NOTE: this tour always fills up!! Don’t delay, reserve today!

(This is a special discounted rate, as well as a longer tour with Meg and John, and then the pleasure of staying for lunch. What a deal!)

NOTE: Specific details regarding meeting location and confirmation of registration will be sent separately.

Program: Entertaining VIPs & Royalty at Cherokee Castle
2023-07-17 18:30 - 20:30 | Southridge Recreation Center, Upstairs Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80130, United States
PRESENTED BY MEG ANDERSON AND JOHN LAKE

Monday, July 17, 2023
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse our partner tables before the program
Program 7:00-8:30 pm
Southridge Recreation Center
4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch
$3 Donation Suggested at Door for non-HRHS members

Tweet Kimball, the owner of Cherokee Castle and Ranch, entertained friends, political leaders and royalty. Meg Anderson was the caterer and John Lake was the butler for these events.
Meg and John will share a PowerPoint on the history of the castle. Catering royal dinners, greeting, and taking care of VIPs and Royalty were exciting events. They will share fascinating stories about these events and personal stories of their friendship with Tweet and other interesting experiences during their 40 year history at the castle.
There will be a drawing following the program of Meg’s cookbook,
“Castle Entertaining from Ranch Hands to Royalty”.
Meg’s cookbook will be available for purchase at 6:30 P.M. and following the program.
ABOUT OUR SPEAKERS:
Meg Anderson and John Lake are well known to Highlands Ranch Historical Society Members! In addition to being Lifetime Members of the Society, they are long-time Highlands Ranch Residents, as well as having Worked (and Played!) at Cherokee Castle for many years. Meg was caterer to Tweet Kimble, and John was Butler and all around everything at the Castle. They know the Castle, the People, the Land, and the Stories!
Have you been on a HRHS annual tour of the castle?
Check our website at http:theHRHS.org for info on our next castle tour.
SPECIAL GUESTS: HRCA Highlands Ranch Community Association will be present, showcasing one or more of their many special activities and areas.

Lindsey McKissick,Communications Manager & Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund Principal Officer, HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Area
The HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Area is a 13-square-mile wildlife habitat conservation property in Highlands Ranch. The mission is to improve wildlife habitat, inspire the next generation of nature stewards, and ignite a lifelong love of the outdoors for all. Our programs offer environmental education opportunities from Pre-K to gray with an emphasis on giving our community local access to a wild place all while protecting habitat for wildlife.

CHEROKEE CASTLE Cherokee Ranch & Castle representatives will be on hand to display their many activities and events.
