Cheesman Park: From Denver's City Cemetery to City Parkat 1175 Chapel Hills Drive

Denver was founded in 1858 after gold was discovered along Cherry Creek, helping fuel the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush. Some who came seeking fortune stayed to build the city. Others never left. In this presentation, author Erin Taylor explores the story of City Cemetery, Denver’s first burial ground. Learn how the cemetery fell into neglect, was eventually abandoned, and later transformed into a public park, despite many graves remaining beneath the grounds. Through historical records, photographs, and local legends, this presentation traces the development of Riverside Cemetery, uncovers enduring mysteries surrounding Denver’s early dead, and examines stories of possible hauntings that continue to intrigue visitors today. Throughout Woman of Light, a 2026 All Pikes Peak Reads selection, author Kali Fajardo-Anstine weaves fiction with reality, often times using actual places and landmarks in Denver. Learn more about what main character Luz “Little Light” Lopez would have seen on one of her frequent walks through Cheesman Park in the 1930s. This program is offered in conjunction with the All Pikes Peak Reads (APPR) program and the CO 150 and US 250 anniversaries.