Like many nonprofit organizations in our community, Grand County Historical Association (GCHA) had to think outside the box and get creative in their fundraising efforts this year. Unable to host their signature event, the “Taste of History”, GCHA opted instead for a virtual platform.
Local fine artist and long-time GCHA supporter Karen Vance offered up her latest masterpiece, ‘The Trestle on Rollins Pass’ for an online raffle, which was drawn the evening of December 1.
“The achievements made on Rollins Pass are unique to Grand County and neighboring counties, the state, and the American story. The ‘Denver, Northwestern and Pacific Railway Hill Route Historic District’ as well as the ‘Rollinsville and Middle Park Wagon Road’ are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places as well as the State Register of Historic Properties,” said GCHA Board President B. Travis Wright.
Wright noted, “Karen Vance’s painting accurately depicts the significance and setting of this area on Rollins Pass: undulating terrain, a mixture of new and old growth pine, abundant wildflowers, scenic viewsheds, a timberline trestle, peach and apricot colored soils on steeper slopes—finished with billowy clouds and piercing blue skies.”
“This collection was very exciting for me. It is such an amazing place,” said Karen Vance, adding, “I was up there last summer and I realized what a treasure we have in our backyard. It depicts the American spirit in conquering the mountains. I was honored to have helped keep this piece of our history.”
The raffle drawing was conducted virtually on Tuesday evening, and the lucky winners of Vance’s original painting are Greg and Jenny Harris of Fraser. Volunteers Jim Yust of Kremmling and Doris Klein of Granby will both receive a signed and numbered limited edition giclee of the painting for selling the most raffle tickets.
“The Museums are our heritage and we need to help support them and keep them alive. They are a vibrant part of our community,” said Vance. “My painting commemorates ‘The Trestle’ and the amazing vision and drive of the pioneers that developed our Grand American West. I have enjoyed working with everyone at GCHA, whose hearts believe that we must always celebrate our History and retain it for generations to come!”
GCHA raised a little over $24,000, but they’re not done yet. With a goal to raise $45,000 by the end of the year, GCHA has partnered with Vance to offer signed and numbered limited edition giclees of ‘The Trestle at Rollins Pass’. Printed on archival canvas board, the giclees are for sale at the Grand County Historical Museums, or by calling (970) 726-5488. The unframed 24” x 15” reproductions sell for $750, and if you bought a raffle ticket(s), you can receive a 10%-15% discount on your giclee purchase. Orders placed by December 10th will be available for pickup by December 20th, just in time for Holiday giving!
