Denver, Colorado may seem like a city that is far removed from the cultural history of Europe, but in reality, it has a rich European connection. While Denver is known for its Western heritage and the Rocky Mountains, it is also home to a vibrant European community that has made significant contributions to the city’s culture and economy. From architecture to food, art, and music, Denver’s European connection is undeniable. This article will take a deeper look at Denver’s European connection and explore the various ways in which it impacts the city.
Denver’s European Roots
Denver was founded in 1858 as a mining town during the Gold Rush. It was named after James W. Denver, the governor of Kansas Territory at the time. However, the founding of Denver was not solely due to the Gold Rush. It was also a result of Colorado’s location on the Santa Fe Trail, which was a trade route between the United States and Mexico. Early settlers in Denver were primarily of European descent, including Germans, Irish, and Italians.
European influence is evident in Denver’s architecture. The city’s oldest surviving building, the Byers-Evans House Museum, was built in 1883 by William Byers, the founder of the Rocky Mountain News. The house features Victorian architecture, which was popular in England during the 19th century. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, built in 1905, is another example of European architecture in Denver. The cathedral features a Gothic Revival style, which was popular in Europe during the 12th and 16th centuries.
Denver’s European Cuisine
One of the most significant ways in which Denver’s European connection is evident is through its food scene. Denver has a diverse European culinary scene that includes French, Italian, Spanish, German, and Irish cuisine. The city’s Italian cuisine is particularly notable, with restaurants like Bar Dough and Il Posto serving up authentic Italian dishes. The cuisine is influenced by Italian immigrants who settled in Denver during the 1800s. These immigrants brought their traditional recipes with them, and they have since been passed down through generations.
The German influence on Denver’s food scene is also evident. Restaurants like Rhein Haus, Prost Brewing Company, and Denver Bier Co. serve traditional German dishes like bratwurst, schnitzel, and sauerkraut. These restaurants also offer a wide selection of German beer, which is a testament to the German influence on Denver’s beer culture.
Denver’s European Art Scene
Denver’s European connection is also reflected in its art scene. The Denver Art Museum is home to a vast collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. The museum also hosts exhibitions featuring European artwork, including the recent exhibit, “Degas: A Passion for Perfection,” which featured works by French Impressionist Edgar Degas.
In addition to the Denver Art Museum, the city is home to several galleries that showcase European art, including the Robischon Gallery and the Walker Fine Art Gallery. These galleries feature works by contemporary European artists like Agnes Martin and Frantisek Kupka.
Denver’s European Music Scene
Denver’s European connection is also evident in its music scene. The city is known for its vibrant jazz scene, which was heavily influenced by European jazz musicians who immigrated to the United States in the early 1900s. Jazz clubs like Dazzle Restaurant & Lounge and the Mercury Cafe showcase the city’s jazz talent and offer a setting reminiscent of the jazz clubs of Paris and Amsterdam.
The city also hosts events featuring European music, such as the annual Oktoberfest celebration. The festival features traditional German music and dancing and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Conclusion
Denver’s European connection is a testament to the city’s rich cultural history. From architecture to cuisine, art, and music, Denver’s European influences are evident in all aspects of the city’s culture. The city’s European connection not only adds to Denver’s charm, but it also boosts the economy by drawing visitors from around the world. Denver’s European community has made significant contributions to the city’s culture and is an integral part of what makes Denver a unique and vibrant city.