Denver South Park and Pacific Historical Society
 

DSP&P Historical Society 2001 Convention - Idaho Springs, CO

Our third convention was held in Idaho Springs, Colo. in August 2001.  About 30  members of the DSP&PHS gathered for three days of exploration and fun.  We checked  out all the sights in Idaho Springs, then headed up I-70 to Dumont, Lawson and Empire.  (A little matter of a bicycle race held on the same day did not hold us back.)  We also took a ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad and toured the Silver Plume shops.  Sunday, we toured the famous Argo Mill, learning a bit more about how difficult a profession the miners had.  Another good time was enjoyed, and we agreed to meet again in Buena Vista in 2002.

 

 

Brian Adams & Dan Windolph prepare to register for the convention in Coach #70 which is on display in Idaho Springs.

 

A genuine DSP&P lantern found along the deserted roadbed.  Well, actually brought to the show by the owner for DSP&P fans to drool over!

 

The Colorado Central depot at Dumont is still in existence.  It was in use as a private residence in 2001 and the owners were kind enough to invite DSP&PHS members inside for a tour.

 

One of the buildings at Lawson, probably a store of some kind, was of interest to many members.

 

A highlight of the 2001 convention was a ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad.  The train was pulled by Shay No. 12.

 

Shay No. 12 switching to the uphill end of the train for the return over the high bridge and back to the depot at Silver Plume.

 

 

After the train ride, members were able to take a tour of the Georgetown Loop Railroad shops at Silver Plume.

 

This old stone chimney is all that is left of the Silver Plume Pavilion, once a favorite place to have fun on the Colorado Central line.

Society members took a tour of the Argo Mill in Idaho Springs.  This facility has become a landmark for those traveling on Interstate 70 in Colorado.