Go for the Gold

Although any hope of finding gold in Denver quickly went bust, on May 6, 1859, prospector John Gregory discovered a real treasure trove in a gulch outside of what would soon be known as Central City, triggering the “Rush to the Rockies” — and setting Denver up as the jumping-off point to the gold camps.

Denver plays that role again today, when the 150th-anniversary celebration of the Colorado Gold Rush kicks off with a free family day at the Governor’s Mansion, 400 East Eighth Avenue. The festivities run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and include re-enactments, performances of period music pieces, gold panning, a gem-and-mineral show — and shuttle rides up to Central City, where participants can try to strike it rich all over again. (The last bus returns to Denver at 5 p.m.) “We are delighted to work with the Governor’s Residence to honor the great history of our area and share its wealth with the citizens of Colorado,” says Linda Jones, president of the Gilpin County Historical Society. For more information, go to www.gilpin150.com or call 303-582-5283.

Sat., May 2, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 2009