On February 2, Punxsutawney Phil, Pennsylvania’s groundhog extraordinaire, will again stick his head out of his den. The nation awaits his verdict. Groundhog Day is said to have its origins in ancient weather lore where the prognosticator was often a badger or a sacred bear. In the United States, its origin is said to come from a Pennsylvania German custom. […]

By Anne Gilbert You may never have heard of insulators much less thought about them as a serious collectible. However for their 2000 serious collectors they are not only important historically as carriers of early railroad signals, but for their varied shapes and vibrant colors. There was a time when looking up while walking along the railroad tracks, you could […]

Considered one of the most notorious outlaws of his time, many people have never heard of “Soapy” Smith.  Plus, he has a great Colorado history connection.  Let’s go exploring! Jefferson R. Smith was born in Georgia in 1860, nephew of a prominent politician, and by the time he was killed in 1898 was well known for his dishonest ways throughout […]

Each January, Denver briefly transforms into the beating heart of the American West, and in 2026, the National Western Stock Show promises to do just that once again. Returning January 10–25, the 120th edition of the Stock Show arrives with new energy, familiar traditions, and a renewed focus on the people and stories that have long defined this iconic Colorado […]

By Bobbie Sweeney New Year’s Day is a special day for everyone in the world. Most countries have observed the first day of the year as an important day for thousands of years. Although customs vary from nation to nation, and the time of year varies for different reasons, the meaning is the same to all. The beginning of a […]