Voorhies Memorial

John Voorhies, a name whispered with reverence around Denver’s Civic Center Park. But who was this man immortalized in stone and bronze at the Voorhies Memorial? Let’s unravel the captivating story of this monument and the man behind it. The Voorhies Memorial, a grand colonnade of Corinthian columns, stands as a testament to a life intertwined with Denver’s history. Completed in 1919, it’s a striking example of Beaux-Arts architecture, designed by the notable firm of Fisher & Fisher. The memorial’s location is no accident. It acts as a symbolic gateway, connecting the bustling downtown area with the serene expanse of Civic Center Park and the State Capitol beyond. John Hart Pemberton Voorhies, or J.H.P. as he was often known, wasn’t a Denver native. He arrived in the 1870s from Lexington, Kentucky, seeking fortune in Colorado’s booming mining industry. He found it, too, owning the Democrat Mine near Silverton. This mine yielded a treasure trove of lead, copper, and an impressive amount of silver. Voorhies, like many who struck it rich in the mountains, eventually made his way to Denver. He served as the Collector of the Port, a prestigious position appointed by President Grover Cleveland himself. Voorhies’s life was not without its share of scandal. Whispers circulated about an affair with Georgie Hammond, the wife of fellow Denver Country Club founder, Anthony Sweeney. After Sweeney’s death, Voorhies and Georgie married, further cementing his place in Denver society. The Voorhies Memorial is more than just a beautiful structure. It’s a piece of art. Admire the intricate murals by Allen Tupper True, depicting scenes of life in the American West. Look closer at the bronze sculptures by Robert Garrison, adorning the oval pool and spouting water. These details bring the memorial to life, adding layers of meaning to Voorhies’s legacy. The memorial has witnessed history unfold. It was the site of Denver’s Armistice Day celebration in 1919, a moment of collective joy and relief at the end of World War I. Today, the Voorhies Memorial remains a vibrant hub for community gatherings, a testament to its enduring significance in Denver’s cultural landscape. Voorhies left a substantial legacy to the city, around $125,000, specifically to build this memorial. Though his will was contested, his wishes ultimately prevailed. And so, the Voorhies Memorial stands, a tribute to a complex and fascinating man, a symbol of Denver’s rich past, and a beautiful space for all to enjoy.