Comprehensive New Pike Exhibit in Pueblo Explores the Multi-Cultural Aspects of the Expedition

The Colorado Historical Society's El Pueblo History Museum in the city of Pueblo is the site of a unique new Pike bicentennial exhibit. “Explorer or Spy; The Pike Legacy” covers both the Spanish and American views of Pike’s expedition, and delves deeply into the conspiracy of U.S General Wilkinson and Aaron Burr—a plot that would cast doubt on Pike’s loyalty to the United States.

The concept of the “Explorer or Spy” exhibit is based on Pike’s relationship with the Arkansas River, the historical significance of sites within city of Pueblo to the expedition, and the fact that the Arkansas eventually became the frontier that separated U.S. territory from Spain’s Northern Provinces. Considering the interrelationships of these elements to the Pike expedition, the museum staff felt that it was important for the exhibit to deal with the perceptions of Pike’s mission from both sides of this former border. Beyond recounting the events on Pike’s journey the exhibit examines the extent of New Spain’s surveillance on what they considered intrusion into their lands. The extent of Spanish intelligence comes into focus with the examination of the tension between the two countries, the shadowy double espionage of Wilkinson, and the questionable role of Pike’s civilian companion Dr. Robinson.

Visitors to the exhibit first explore the Jeffersonian era and the American treatment of the Louisiana Purchase. They then journey through the exhibit past a spectacular photomural essay by Colorado photographer Michael �Spydr� Wren, which illuminates the harrowing yet breathtakingly scenic route of the expedition.

The watershed event of the exhibit is marked by Pike’s arrest by Spanish dragoons, and the focus of the exhibit decidedly changes from American to Spanish. On display, for instance, are the typical objects Pike would have observed within the homes along his journey to Chihuahua.

Through fine art and historic maps, Spanish character and material culture that Pike came to appreciate is showcased, such as the striking Santa Domingo pottery from the Indian pueblo where Pike stayed. In addition, visitors can view not only the full uniforms of Pike’s men, but also a rare exhibit of the presidial uniforms and equipment of his Spanish captors.

A dual perspective is also presented with regard to Pike’s legacy. After the expedition returned home, the American West opened up for trade and settlement, while Spain’s internal problems put an end to their colonial hold on Mexico.

Visitors to the museum learn how the American expedition affected the region’s people, economy and borders.Throughout, the exhibits pose questions so that the viewer can ponder the same facts that have confounded historians for years. Was Pike a guilty party in the Wilkinson plot? Was he an American spy? At the end of the tour, visitors can actually cast their vote as to whether they think Pike was an explorer, spy, or both.

“Explorer or Spy” is on view at the El Pueblo Museum through December, and even offers a fun and educational interactive area for families.

�

A four-day lecture series is scheduled from July l0 to the l3th, when Pike’s sword—one of the few surviving artifacts directly attributed to him—will be placed on display. On the anniversary of Pike’s November arrival at Pueblo, a musical anthology of Pike-era songs will be presented. The museum gift shop specializes in western titles, and offers fine gifts and Pike-related merchandise. For museum information on admission and tours call 719-583-0453 Tuesday through Saturday, or visit www.coloradohistory.org .To learn more about Pueblo or the River walk, site of the historic Pike Plaza at the Boettcher Outdoor Education Center, go to www.puebloharp.com

Pike Enduro to Retrace Route
and Raise Awareness

For fifteen days in August, endurance athlete David Pokorny will challenge Pike’s route—and climb his peak—to raise awareness for those who are fighting uphill battles of another kind.

Pokorny’s overland campaign, which he is calling Ride to Pike’s Peak, is a biking and running endeavor beginning from Pike’s jump-off point at Fort Bellefontaine August 3, and ending at the top of Pikes Peak on August 20.

While Ride to Pike’s Peak commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Pike military expedition to the American Southwest, David and his teammate (and mother) Pat Pokorny also hope to raise awareness for Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), and the need for organ donors. Seven immediate family members were afflicted with the disease. Eight years ago PKD caused the failure of Pat’s kidneys and only a kidney transplant saved her life.

The Ride to Pike’s Peak will travel much of the Pike Expedition route through Missouri, Kansas and Colorado, ending at the base of Pike’s Peak. On August 20, David will cap off his epic journey by running the 51st Annual Pikes Peak Marathon. Local cyclists are invited to join the ride as it enters their communities.

Click Image for Larger Map

Ride to Pike’s Peak begins August 3 and ends August 20. David and Pat will complete the challenge as a team. David will be biking from St. Louis to Pikes Peak and running the Pikes Peak Marathon while Pat coordinates logistics, plans support and transports their RV trailer. Confirmed events include recognition at MLB games for St. Louis Cardinals (Aug 2), Kansas City Royals (Aug 6) and Colorado Rockies (Aug 17).

Approximate Schedule

August 3 – 6: Fort Bellefontaine, St. Charles, Hermann, Jefferson City, Lake of the Ozarks, Osage Villages Historic Site, Missouri (Missouri and Osage Rivers)

August 7 – 13: Wichita, Larned, Dodge City, Garden City, Kansas (Arkansas River)

August 14 – 17: Pueblo, Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Colorado (Arkansas River)

Additional events in St. Louis (Aug. 2), Kansas City (Aug. 6) and Denver (Aug. 17).

For details, visit www.ridetopikespeak.com. To contact David or Pat Pokorny, send an email to [email protected].

�