Pike-specializing docent to speak at History Center

       Diana Francese, a Pioneers Museum volunteer docent, will give a presentation on early 19th century Colorado explorer Zebulon Pike Friday, Jan. 13 at the Old Colorado City History Center, 1 S. 24th St. Starting at 11 a.m., Francese's “A Glimpse into the Private Life of Pike” will include information about his wife, Clara. Sponsored by the Old Colorado City Historical Society (OCCHS), the talk is free and and open to the public.
       With 2006 marking the 200th anniversary of Pike's expedition to this region, Francese is a member of the volunteer group of “dam'd rascals” trained by the Pioneers Museum to specialize on Pike subjects. The “rascals” name comes from Pike's affectionate term for a group of enlisted men who were part of his expedition. Francese, a Westside resident, has also been a docent at Rock Ledge Ranch.
       Information on the Pike Bicentennial celebration, including exhibits, programs and activities at the Pioneers Museum, will be available. The History Center, owned and operated by the volunteer OCCHS, will open at 10 a.m. for coffee and museum visitation.
       Pike is known for having attempted to climb the peak - later named after him - but not succeeding. His expedition also “is important because it represents a young nation's initial steps toward understanding the immensity of its southwestern expanse, the varied landscapes and peoples, and this new relationship in regard to the nations within and 'round its borders,” according to an OCCHS press release.

Westside Pioneer article