The statue of Winfield Scott Stratton stands at the corner of Pikes Peak and Nevada was removed earlier this year for repairs to the base. The piece was also washed and waxed so it looks shiny new!
The sculpture is part of the public art collection managed by the City of Colorado Springs’ Cultural Services Division. The maintenance work was funded by a Conservation Trust Fund allocation for sculpture maintenance.
Stratton moved to Colorado Springs in the early 1870s where he worked as a carpenter and part-time prospector. On July 4, 1891, he discovered the first major gold strike in the newly formed Cripple Creek Mining District.With his newfound wealth, Stratton became a prominent and prolific philanthropist.
Among his many lasting gifts to Colorado Springs was the creation of the Myron Stratton home for children and seniors in need.
More information about Stratton can be found on the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum’s website.
The bronze likeness of Stratton is a replica of the original statue created by Nellie Walker in 1907, which remains on the grounds of the Myron Stratton Home. The replica is located next to the original Mining Exchange Building built by Stratton in 1902 to promote local mining.