Pearl DeVere was one of the most famous and successful madams in the history of the American West. From a suitably mysterious background, Pearl built a thriving business that became one of the most famed “parlor houses” in the country. Her incredible business acumen, as well as her famed beauty and charm, ensured that her legend endures to this day in the historic gold rush town of Cripple Creek, Colorado.
Recorded on location at the Old Homestead House Museum in Cripple Creek, Colorado.
All photos by Olivia Meikle unless otherwise attributed
courtesy of the Museum
courtesy of the museum
Denver Public Library, Western History Photographic Collection
Denver Public Library, Western History Photographic Collection
courtesy of the museum
Charlotte Bumgarner has been Executive Director for Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway Association since 2001, and is one of its founding members. She first became involved with the Old Homestead House Museum as a tour guide in 1996, and is now the manager and protector of the museum. She has been awarded the Southern Colorado Conservation Friend of Open Space Award and the Mary Kiser Volunteer Service Award from Colorado Byways. Bumgarner is currently the Treasurer for National Scenic Byway Foundation. Preserving the culture and the land of Colorado is her passion.
Music featured in this episode included:
“Cripple Creek” performed by Half Pelican
“Aunt Hagar’s Blues” performed by The New Hot 5
“There’ll Be a Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight” performed by Daniel Henderson and Amanda Setlik Wilson
“Daemon’s Winder,” by The Earth Stringband
Our theme music is composed and performed by Daniel Foster Smith
Episode 26 Halloween Special
Episode 26 Halloween Special
$2.50 each or 3 for $6.00
Really loved seeing the photos of the parlor house and Bennett Street!