Reader: “Understanding Sand Creek Requires a Thorough Study of History”

“Past Imperfect,” Patricia Calhoun, October 2

A Textbook Case

Thank you, Patricia Calhoun, for your “textbook case” in why it is important to remember history. I grew up in Colorado, and I did not hear about the Sand Creek Massacre until a few years ago. I’m afraid if the Jefferson County school board has its way, Sand Creek will become another glorious military victory, not a massacre.
Jeremy Wright
Adams County

Understanding Sand Creek, as well as other atrocities perpetrated by both whites and Natives during this time, requires a thorough study of history. Even then, it can be baffling to us living in the 21st century. Fear of the unknown, cultural prejudice, starvation, mis-applied “religion” and the lack of communication systems all contributed to the bad stuff people did to each other during this time period.

Had Sand Creek been attempted today, it would have gone viral before Chivington and his volunteers ever reached Ft. Lyon.

Best to admit the truth, make good where we can, and move on without forgetting.
Marilyn Bay Wentz
Posted on Facebook

Excellent article. Now you can see why people want to change the mascot at the University of Denver. Colorado had some not-so-great moments in history: Ludlow, Sand Creek and Alferd Packer.

I would imagine there is more that is not mentioned.
Doug Hubka
Posted on Facebook

Your story on Sand Creek failed to honor Colonel John Chivington for saving the gold fields from Rebel offensives in 1862, the lack of regular forces in the territories due to the Civil War, and the Indian raids, including the burning of Julesburg, that led to volunteer regiments in the first place.
Mike Reade
Boulder

Editor’s note: The Battle of Julesburg came six weeks after the Sand Creek Massacre, on January 7, 1865.

“Fifty Shades of Grief,” Alan Prendergast, September 18

Black and White

The female rebuffed by Kiefer Johnson created more legal and personal complications for him than the number of coils in a snake pit! Johnson is a potential Olympic runner and an earnest student, and doesn’t need several years of litigration hanging over his life before the matter’s finished. (Law is the lowest form of communication.) He should settle out of court for a hefty sum, get out of that stupid school he’s in (Western State Colorado University), and carry on with his life.
Gene W. Edwards
Colorado Springs

You really think male track runners are “star athletes”?

Your bias is showing.
Sage McLaughlin
Posted on Facebook