Press Release
Rare Performance of the Colorado State Song Celebrating 100 Years of “Where the Columbines Grow” and Other State Symbol
DENVER – In the spring, the Colorado landscape is dotted with an abundance of blooming columbines. The badges of purple and white epitomize the natural beauty that makes all Coloradans proud to call this state home. The columbine not only represents Colorado as the state flower, but plays a prominent role in the little-known state song, “Where the Columbines Grow”.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the poetic and lyrical song. On October 19th, History Colorado will host a special vocal performance of “Where the Columbines Grow” as well as uncover the stories behind our other state symbols, including the columbine, as part of the “The Story of Colorado’s State Symbols” lecture.
Never heard the state song? You wouldn’t be alone. “Even though ‘Where the Columbines Grow has been around for 100 years, it is rarely performed and often overshadowed by catchier Colorado tunes such as ‘Rocky Mountain High’”, says Shawn Snow, Public Programs, Lectures and Tours Director. “It was on May 8, 1915 that Governor George Carlson signed the law making “Where the Columbines Grow” by Arthur J. Fynn, Colorado’s first state song. Fynn wrote the song based upon his his early experience in the rural school districts of the San Luis Valley and on his many travels throughout the state.”
The song will be performed in two differing renditions by local Denver group Off Kilter at the History Colorado Center. The performance offers a unique chance to hear this historical melody, harkening back to Colorado’s past.
Following the special performance, State Historian Emeritus, Dr. William Convery will give a special lecture entitled “The Story of Colorado’s State Symbols”. The second lecture in the World Around Us lecture series will explore Colorado state symbols including lesser known symbols like the brilliant state gemstone—the aquamarine—and the dazzling rhodochrosite, the state mineral. In order to further explore the state symbols, History Colorado will feature an artifact table that will showcase materials related to Colorado symbols. The lecture will be held at 1-2pm and 7-8pm at the History Colorado Center.
Off Kilter soloist James Knapp will be performing at 12:30pm and 12:50pm before the first lecture and will be joined by the rest of the Off Kilter group in the evening at 6:30pm and 6:50pm before the second lecture.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the door
Members $8.50
Students $6.50
Nonmembers with admission $14
Nonmembers for lecture only $10
For more information about the lecture go to: http://www.historycolorado.org/adult-visitors/lectures
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History Colorado's mission is to inspire generations to find wonder and meaning in our past and to engage in creating a better Colorado. We serve as the state's memory, preserving the places, stories, and material culture of Colorado through our museums, educational programs, historic preservation grants, research library, collections, and outreach to Colorado communities. Find History Colorado on all major social media platforms. Visit HistoryColorado.org or call (303) HISTORY for more information.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Shannon Haltiwanger
Public Information Officer | Preservation Communications Manager