Spirits and history abound: A spirit from Central City’s past returns and delights an audience with tales of romance and murder. PHOTO BY OMAYRA ACEVEDO[/caption]

Considering the 8,691 feet elevation and the time of year, the weather was unusually comfortable. The chill in the air came from something different, something unexplained.

The date was Friday, October 20, 2023. A little before 7 p.m., more than 40 skeptics and believers gather in the Vintage Waiting Room of the Century Casino. Before long, the audience receives their instructions and safety tips.

As the group exits the casino, they’re guided uphill to the Teller House, where the audience meets the first of many spirits of the past. Here, we learn about a cold-blooded murder, giving more reasons to avoid wandering off on your own.

Next, the Central City Opera House welcomes the audience with tales of Buffalo Bill Cody from his wife, Louisa Frederici. Cody was considered the greatest buffalo hunter of his time, but his reputation preceded him even after his death.

The group exits the opera house, crosses the street, and heads downhill to the Williams Stables performance space for an introduction to Dirty John Sutton’s life in Central City and beyond. Gentlemen, be warned: keep your ladies close and protected. Dirty John was known for taking anything and everything he wanted.

A paranormal investigation ensues at the Lace House, with its gothic architecture creating the perfect location and ambiance for the audience to meet another of the city’s spirited residents. An Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) and an Electromagnetic Field (EMF) reader are seen in action as the audience witnesses a spirit of the past materialize.

For the tour’s conclusion, an Idaho Springs miner shares the details of his death and everything that ensued. Every ghostly experience has its share of historical lessons entwined with excitement and humor, making it easy to see why it’s the Gilpin Historical Society’s 14th Annual Creepy Crawl.

To discover the details of each story and its legends, join one of Gilpin Historical Society tours on October 27 or 28. The walking tours depart every 30 minutes until 9 p.m. The first tour begins at 7 p.m.

Your admission price also includes a wristband, which allows you to enjoy one beer at Dostal Alley after the tour. Tours depart from the lower level of the Century Casino. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/14th-annual-central-city-creepycrawl tickets-717383813297.

The Gilpin Historical Society is located at 228 E 1st High Street, Central City. You can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GilpinHistory or you can give them a call at 303-582-5283.