The Cripple Creek District, on the back of Pikes Peak in central Colorado, first found fame through Bob Womack, the cowboy who publicized his knowledge of gold in the high country and drew thousands to the area. Gold fever allowed the region to flourish, while strikes, fires, and economic hardships threatened the district's survival. The dwindling population's fortitude, plus innovative ideas to boost the economy, carried the city from a struggling gold-miners' paradise to a favored tourist spot.
Jan MacKell, author and historical and genalogical researcher, is affiliated with the Colorado State Historical Society, Old Colorado City Historical Society, El Paso County Pioneer Association, and several other historic groups. Her compelling narrative, coupled with vivid historic images, is an enlightening, informative portrayal of this central Colorado area.