The Brown Palace Hotel: History and Mystery

 Napoleonic treasures, Masonic symbolism, famous guests, including the prize steers from the annual National Western Stock Show and evidence of visitors from the beyond...this and more are held as dear historic and ongoing stories at this triangular and legendary structure, situated at 17th and Tremont in downtown Denver. As a kid, I thought The Brown Palace got its name from the color of the reddish-brown sandstone it was constructed with. But I was wrong. Join me as I discuss this important landmark with Debra Faulkner, the archivist at the Brown Palace Hotel.  The Brown Palace is virtual time capsule of history, and not just of Denver. Each owner put their own mark on the place with their love of European history and personal collections from travels. We particularly witness within the walls, the journey of women and how they went from being confined to "special rooms," to becoming integral parts of society.  Debra, a Colorado native, conveys the history with the care one would take with their own ancestry. During the 17 years she has held this position, she has seen many changes, just as the city of Denver has changed over those same years. She is vehement about preserving and sharing the precious past of this landmark. As the Brown Palace looks for another new owner, it is important for Coloradans to understand how deep these roots go and to place value on this landmark that we are so fortunate to have.