Patrice LeBlanc, Central City. Central City celebrated its 22nd Annual Tommyknocker weekend December 5 through December 8, 2019. The events came about from the legend of the mystical Tommyknockers who presumed to have come to Central City with the miners from Cornwall, England, during the Gold Rush of 1859. Miners knew them as guardians of the mines and trusted their safety to the little creatures. It has been told the Tommyknockers would knock on the walls of the mines to warn the miners of a cave-in, allowing the miners to get out in time. When the mines closed, the Tommyknockers lead a lazy life, enjoying the bright sunshine after so many years of darkness in the mines. Even today, some things that happen in Central City are attributed to the Tommyknockers. They love to play pranks on people, but never do harm. People who believe in the Tommyknockers might see them throughout the holiday celebrations. 

The weekend started off on Thursday, December 5, where Gilpin County school children joined Father Christmas in a parade down Main Street. Cookies and candies were provided by the Central City Elks Ladies, Peak to Peak Rotary Club, Ermel’s Thrift Shop and Gilpin County Education Foundation. 

Friday, December 6, 2019, began with the lighting the Christmas tree on Main Street. Carolers participated in a City Candle Walk up Main Street to the Teller House. The community enjoyed a pot luck at the Teller House with a performance of the Peak to Peak Chorale. An ugly sweater contest was also included. 

A community craft fair was held on Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8 at the Teller House. Exhibits of historical books, antique collectables, jewelry, Christmas crafts, homemade food items and vintage clothing were on display. Vendors who participated were: Jeansonne’s Fine Designs, Holly Simon Photography, Rodan+Fields Skincare, Majestic Mountain Design, Auntie M’s Trunk, Mary Kay Beauty Products, Gary Krangenbrink-artist, Randy’s Metal art, Pure Hemp Botanicals, Wyoming Chili Company, dam photos, LLC, Art Expressions, Gothard Photography, Suz Cookie Jar Rescue, Rachel Josselyn Desserts, Pitt Wares, Robyns Nest]Red Queeen Crafts, Author, Kelly Merritt book signing. Other activities included a children’s coloring contest, a Victorian clothing contest and a gingerbread house contest. 

A Tommyknocker Holiday event was sponsored by the City of Central in cooperation with the Main Street Central City and the Opera House Association. The event was organized with a goal to return community spirit to the historic mountain town. The collaboration between Gilpin County communities, businesses and citizens revitalizes the community.

(Originally published in the December 12, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)