Thursday, October 20, 2011

Honoring Vets on Veterans Day

Avenue Hotel Bed and Breakfast, a Colorado Bed and Breakfast in Manitou Springs, will join hundreds of inns and Bed and Breakfasts across the U.S. and Canada in honoring active and retired veterans with FREE rooms in recognition of Veteran's Day. The Avenue Hotel B&B will open our doors with a complimentary stay for Vets November 10th so they wake up on Veterans day, 11-11-11, to a wonderful breakfast after a great nights' stay in our historic inn. This is a thank you from the Avenue Hotel Bed and Breakfast for those serving in the military and their families for the important work they do.

We will offer one/third of our rooms free with a buy one get one night free offer. We are also have rooms 50% off on November 10th.  Vets interested in making reservations call 719-685-1277.  Proof of military service is requested. We still have rooms available.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Emma Crawford Coffin Races & Parade

The 17th annual Emma Crawford Coffin Races & Parade in Manitou Springs, Colorado  fill the street on October 29th at 12:00-3:30 commemorating  the  passing of Emma Crawford.   Ghostly and ghoulish town mourners mix and mingle as they view the decked out coffins. The day starts with the parade of coffins with their themed entourage,  hearses and the town mourners. Then the coffins, on wheels, containing their " Emma"  prepare for the 250 yard race up Manitou Avenue. Teams are judged on speed as well as creative design. This is a festive pre-Halloween event not to be missed. 
Emma's  Victorian wake with generous Victorian buffet is the night before at the Miramont Castle.

In hopes for a cure of TB,  young Emma Crawford came to Manitou Springs hearing of the healing mineral water. She loved the mountains and hiked in the fresh air. Emma did not survive and her wishes were to  to be buried atop  the 7200  foot  peak of Red Mountain.  Years later,early  in the 1900's the granite gave way during a heavy rain and  her coffin washed down into town . She is now buried in the Manitou Springs Cemetery.

Emma is not forgotten.