Edgeplain, Colorado Springs
Edgeplain, also known as the Arthur House, stands as a cherished landmark on the Colorado College campus, ensconced in the annals of history and architectural splendor. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this venerable building has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, embodying the rich tapestry of the region's heritage.
Constructed in 1881 by Lyman Bass, a prominent attorney with ties to luminaries such as Grover Cleveland and William Jackson Palmer, Edgeplain was initially envisioned as a grand Tudor Revival home nestled amidst the pristine expanse of undeveloped prairie. Renowned architect A.C. Williard was tasked with bringing Bass's vision to life, resulting in a masterpiece of architectural finesse and opulence. The $115,000 estate boasted distinctive stonework, adorned with a myriad of colors and finishes, including pecked and vermiculated masonry dressings, showcasing the unparalleled craftsmanship of the era.
Over the years, Edgeplain became synonymous with refined elegance and sophisticated gatherings, playing host to luminaries from the realms of politics, arts, and culture. Following Bass's passing, the residence changed hands several times before finding itself in the possession of Chester Alan Arthur II, son of President Chester A. Arthur. Under the stewardship of the Arthur family, the estate underwent extensive expansions and renovations, further enhancing its allure as a premier social venue in the region.
In 1922, Colorado College acquired Edgeplain, repurposing it as a men's dormitory and later transitioning it into a coeducational residence hall. Today, this historic edifice continues to serve as a cherished home for students, offering a unique blend of living, kitchen, and recreational spaces that foster a vibrant sense of community and camaraderie.
Constructed in 1881 by Lyman Bass, a prominent attorney with ties to luminaries such as Grover Cleveland and William Jackson Palmer, Edgeplain was initially envisioned as a grand Tudor Revival home nestled amidst the pristine expanse of undeveloped prairie. Renowned architect A.C. Williard was tasked with bringing Bass's vision to life, resulting in a masterpiece of architectural finesse and opulence. The $115,000 estate boasted distinctive stonework, adorned with a myriad of colors and finishes, including pecked and vermiculated masonry dressings, showcasing the unparalleled craftsmanship of the era.
Over the years, Edgeplain became synonymous with refined elegance and sophisticated gatherings, playing host to luminaries from the realms of politics, arts, and culture. Following Bass's passing, the residence changed hands several times before finding itself in the possession of Chester Alan Arthur II, son of President Chester A. Arthur. Under the stewardship of the Arthur family, the estate underwent extensive expansions and renovations, further enhancing its allure as a premier social venue in the region.
In 1922, Colorado College acquired Edgeplain, repurposing it as a men's dormitory and later transitioning it into a coeducational residence hall. Today, this historic edifice continues to serve as a cherished home for students, offering a unique blend of living, kitchen, and recreational spaces that foster a vibrant sense of community and camaraderie.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Colorado Springs. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Edgeplain on Map
Sight Name: Edgeplain
Sight Location: Colorado Springs, USA (See walking tours in Colorado Springs)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Colorado Springs, USA (See walking tours in Colorado Springs)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Create Your Own Walk in Colorado Springs
Creating your own self-guided walk in Colorado Springs is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Colorado Springs Downtown Walking Tour
Colorado Springs, or simply "The Springs", is a city with a fascinating blend of eventful past and scenic natural beauty.
Throughout its history, Colorado Springs has evolved from a gold rush town into a significant military and educational center. The region that would become Colorado Springs was initially inhabited by the Ute, Arapaho, and Cheyenne peoples and became part of the... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Throughout its history, Colorado Springs has evolved from a gold rush town into a significant military and educational center. The region that would become Colorado Springs was initially inhabited by the Ute, Arapaho, and Cheyenne peoples and became part of the... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Colorado College Historical Buildings Walking Tour
Founded in 1874, Colorado College stands out as one of the earliest institutions in Colorado to confer academic degrees. It was established through the efforts of General William Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs, and Henry McAllister, a director of the Colorado Springs Company, both of whom contributed land along Cascade Avenue for the campus, setting the foundation for the college's... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles