A Brief History- The Chautauqua Movement is named for the Chautauqua Institute on Lake Chautauqua in western NY state. The movement started in 1874 as a summer school for Sunday school teachers, and quickly spread to include all kinds of adult education. Many towns, especially in rural areas, began to establish "chautauquas"- gatherings for educational, cultural and recreational activities. At its peak in about 1915, approximately 12, 000 towns had hosted a chautauqua.
The Colorado Chautauqua began as a partnership with the Texas Board of Regents in the late 1890's. The city of Boulder agreed to provide land, facilities and public utilities to create a summer school for teachers. The location was selected for its "spectacular mountain setting and cool climate".
Today, the Colorado Chautauqua is the only continuously operating chautauqua west of the Mississippi, the only year round Chautauqua, and the only one whose grounds are free and open to the public. There are numerous hiking trails, an auditorium featuring popular concerts and lectures, and a "dining hall" with a wrap-around porch for viewing the evergreens and mountains. A visitor can rent an apartment, a cottage, or an entire lodge for a family reunion.
My note- After only one day at C.C., I will say it's incredible. Last night, I sat on the porch of the dining hall and had Rocky Mountain trout with white grits and green beans, followed by Berry Pie. Today (Wednesday) I started the day with a cup of tea in my hand, soaking in the fresh air and mountain views. Then, I took a hike, first on Bluebell Trail, then on Mesa Trail. I walked to Boulder (all downhill), browsed, and shopped for groceries. Laden with bags, I took a cab- too much to carry all uphill! After dinner I went for a stroll through the grounds. It was quieter tonight than last night since there was no concert, but still many people were dining, walking, hiking.
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