The story of Colorado takes a turn, the first big discovery of gold in the mountains is made in current Idaho Springs, Colorado, near the confluence of Chicago and Clear Creeks.

Places to know: Floyd Hill, Evergreen, Bergen Park, Ute Trail, Jackson's Hill, Mother Cabrini Shrine, US40, I-70, Denver, Arapahoe City and Golden.

The people to know: George Andrew Jackson, Black Hawk (Jim Sanders), Tom Golden

The co-stars: Glutton (Carcajou)

Mountain Lions - Mountain Lions

Elk - Elk

Tools of note (belt axe, belt knife and skinning knife)

Note: Where's the mule in the story? Every time I see this story exhibited, there is a mule. There was no mule...sorry.

Today we hear about the journey across the plains from a member of the Lawrence Party, Augustus Voorhees, by way of his journal entries beginning May 31, 1858. These entries describe the scenery, interactions with the native inhabitants (many tribes) and the conditions of life on the Santa Fe Trail in 1858.

Back in Denver, a murder is committed, and the 58ers prepare for winter.

This is a good chance to hear and learn of the pioneer traveler, for ion the coming episodes the country will be inundated with those who make this trek.

The creation of Denver AND Colorado, three places to visit in Denver, the first towns of Montana City, Auraria, St. Charles and Arapahoe City - all in contention for the county seat (Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory). This is the dawn of Colorado, and now the story really begins!

Denver City, Colorado, Montana City, Arapahoe City, Auraria

Pike's Peak gold rush, Grant Frontier Park, Confluence Park, the saddest and loneliest historical marker ever!