1961 Wolf Creek Pass Continental Divide Sign Slide #CWO-61C

Brief Description

The image on this slide was captured in 1961 at the summit of Wolf Creek Pass in Colorado. The large rock on the left side would usually hold a plaque, but this was removed for refurbishing around the time that this sign was added.

Info

The featured image was scanned by Coloradotopia. Photographs of the actual slide w/ cardboard mount were captured on a light table.

Image use restricted.

Image Dating Comments

There is a punch-stamped development date of June 1961 on the slide. The few patches of remaining snow in the background indicate that the image was likely captured in the late spring, just shortly before the slide was developed.

date on 1961 Wolf Creek Pass Continental Divide Sign Slide CWO-61C

Slide Front & Backside

front and back of 1961 Wolf Creek Pass Continental Divide Sign Slide CWO-61C

Comments & Discussion

There were at least 4 versions of this sign here before this one, and the earliest ones were on the opposite side of the road. The signs were moved to the southern side of the highway during the early 1950s. 

This sign was likely added by the Forest Service in the late 1950s. At that time, the base was constructed and the boulder + plaque that were already there were built onto the side of this newer base. The top left of the boulder was broken off (likely on purpose) and the plaque was removed for refurbishing.

Condition, Aging & Authenticity: There is very light discoloration of the slide’s mount on both sides. The punch-stamped date has almost faded out, but is still clearly legible under good light. There is no apparent damage to the slide’s film.

About the Coloradotopia Archives Collection. The Coloradotopia archives hold a large collection of historical images and items that document Colorado’s ski and automobile history in the mountains. Subscribe to the Coloradotopia newsletter to receive weekly updates on new items as they’re added to the archives.

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