Cherry Creek State Park

While Paul was out trying to solve our "sewer hose" dilemma, I decided to take a walk and explore the area.  Here are a few pictures of my discoveries in the Cherry Creek State Park.

Yes, that is snow on the mountains.

Peeking around the corner to say "What's up?"

Milkweed ready to seed for next Spring.

Picked a few of these.  They were delicious!

The following was taken from a posted signage in Cherry Creek State Park:

One of the first and largest companies to offer stagecoach service was the Butterfield Overland Despatch.  The B.O.D. carried its first passengers to Denver on September 23, 1865, using the Smoky Hill South Trail.   It was a trip where pleasures were few and troubles plentiful.  The long, rough ride and cramped conditions prompted one passenger to write the Ten Commandments of Butterfield Stage Route:

1. The best seat ifs the forward one, next to the driver.  If you have tendencies toward stage sickness when riding backwards, you'll get over it quicker in this seat and receive less jolts and jostlings.

2. If the stage teams run away or are pursued by Indians, stay in the coach and take your chances.  Don't jump out, for you will be injured or scalped.

3.In cold weather abstain from liquor for you are subject to freezing quicker if under its influence than as though you were cold sober.

4. But if you are drinking from a bottle, pass it around.  It is the only polite thing to do.

5. Don't smoke a strong cigar or pipe on the stage, especially when women or children are present.  If chewing tobacco, spit to the leeward side.

6. Don't swear or smoke or lop over on neighbors when sleeping.  Let others share the buffalo robes provided in cold weather.

7. Don't shoot firearms for pleasure while enroute as it scares the horses.


8. Don't discuss politics or religion.  Don't point out sites where Indian attacks took place.

9. While at stations, don't lag at wash basins or privies.  Don't grease hair with bear grease or buffalo tallow as travel is very dusty.

10. Don't imagine you are going on a picnic, for stage travel is inconvenient.  Expect annoyances, discomforts, and hardships.  Bear then with fortitude.  Be friendly and helpful to other passengers and you will be a more pleasant one.


Good travel advice, even today!

Jo