Golden City was only six months old when we celebrated our first Christmas in December of 1859. William Loveland held a ball in his new building, which had a store on the first floor and a large open hall on the second, for use in public meetings. Loveland’s first store building was on the site of our current pocket park, which is called Loveland Gardens.
George West’s first newspaper, The Western Mountaineer, described the event in the December 28, 1859 edition.
There was a large company present, including a greater number of ladies than we have seen together in the Territory before, on any occasion. There were several ladies and gentlemen present from Denver and Auraria, Boulder, Arapahoe and other places, in all fifty couples….
The Hall, which is yet in an unfinished state, was elaborately trimmed with evergreens, tastefully arranged in festoons and arches, and had a very fine effect.
The Music, by McDuffee and Ackley, was superior….
The Supper, which was provided by Mr. Sm. J. McKay. His table was provided with all the delicacies that could possibly be obtained in the country…..
In short, the whole affair was one of unalloyed pleasure. The company separated at an early hour (in the morning) and at the next ball at Loveland’s may we be there to see!
Dennis Potter gave a lecture called “The Skirt Who Wore Men’s Clothes” for the Golden History Museum, and a significant part of his story happens on the very night of this ball. I’ve watched the talk several times and recommend it.
