Central in Denver in Denver County, Colorado — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Edward W. Wynkoop
Exaggerated reports of Indian-white fighting and bloodshed in the surrounding plains reached Denver and the city was terrorized by rumors that the Indians were planning to destroy the town.
Major Edward W. Wynkoop, the humane commander of Fort Lyon, tenaciously worked for a peaceful solution to the problem. Despite the loss of his command for holding these unpopular beliefs, he arranged meetings between Governor Evans and well-intentioned Indian chiefs to plan for peace. Succumbing to intense political pressure for military action, the Governor declared total war.
The Third Colorado Regiment surprised the Cheyenne in their lodges at Sand Creek. One hundred and five women and children plus twenty-eight men, many aged, were shot, scalped, and mutilated.
Wynkoop’s courageous stand is an inspiration to seek peaceful solutions to conflict between peoples.
Constructed in 1901 as a spice and commission house, the building was later used as a general warehouse. In 1979, it was renovated for office and living space.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Native Americans • Peace. A significant historical year for this entry is 1864.
Location. 39° 45.193′ N, 104° 59.934′ W. Marker is in Denver, Colorado, in Denver County. It is in Central. Marker is on Wynkoop Street south of 18th Street, on the left when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1738 Wynkoop Street, Denver CO 80202, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Warehouses (within shouting distance of this marker); Denver City Railway Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Union Station (within shouting distance of this marker); 18th St. Atrium / Littleton Creamery Beatrice Cold Storage Warehouse (within shouting distance of this marker); The People of the Station (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Welcome to Union Station (about 300 feet away); Union Station Timeline (about 300 feet away); Union Station Area (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Denver.
Also see . . . Wikipedia article on Edward W. Wynkoop. (Submitted on August 29, 2016, by Mark Hilton of Montgomery, Alabama.)
Credits. This page was last revised on February 7, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 29, 2016, by Mark Hilton of Montgomery, Alabama. This page has been viewed 702 times since then and 36 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on August 29, 2016, by Mark Hilton of Montgomery, Alabama.