If you plan on visiting Colorado Springs, Colorado, a trip through the Garden of the Gods should be on your agenda. The red rock formations with names such as Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock and Cathedral Spires are truly spectacular sights to behold. Picnics, hiking, biking and horseback riding are just a few of the wonderful things to enjoy when you visit the park. It is said the name Garden of the Gods originated when Melancthon Beach, one of the founders of Colorado City (another great place to visit with fantastic shops) was showing the area to a friend, Rufus Cable (c. 1897)when Beach stated "Don't you think this would be a great place for a Milwaukee beer garden?" Cable was stunned by the comment and replied, "Beer garden! Why this is fit for a Garden of the Gods!"
Early in the 20th century...Charles Perkins bequeathed the Garden of the Gods to the City of Colorado for everyone to enjoy free of charge.
For more information and excellent vintage photographs see Images of America Colorado Springs, Colorado ISBN: 978-0-7385-2091-9 by Elizabeth Wallace. The book can be purchased at the Garden of the Gods visitor center and most book shops in the Colorado Springs area.
