Denver Mountain Parks
Denver Mayor Robert Speer began a campaign to create the Denver Mountain Park system in 1911. Genesee Park was the first purchase in 1912. In 1914, Denver enclosed 160 acres at Genesee for 23 wild elk and seven bison brought by rail from Yellowstone. Wildlife conservation was the primary purpose of establishing the preserve. Another reason was that World War I was causing scarcities, and semi-domesticated bison and elk could provide supplemental meat should the supply of beef and poultry run out.
Common stock wire and iron pipes from boilers of discarded locomotives were used to build the original fence that cost $700 per mile. Hay was cut from other areas of Genesee Park’s overall 2,340 acres. The bison/elk pasture was expanded to 500 acres. When I-70 cut through the pasture, a tunnel was constructed under the highway for the animal’s north-south passage.
By the 1930s, the bison were doing so well at Genesee Park, the Denver municipal government decided to start a second herd at Daniels Park with an enclosure of 900 acres. The public is welcome to observe the bison and elk in their natural habitat. These amazing creatures provide use with a daily vision of history. Seeing them roam at Genesee Park gives us a daily window to a vanished world.
Excerpts from Lomond, C., and Homola, M. (Dec ’95 - Jan ’96). "Window to a Vanished World." City and mountain Views, Issue 27, p.8.
Donations for bison and elk maintenance may be sent to the Denver Parks and Recreation Department, 2300 15th Street, Denver, CO 80202. On the check or money order made payable to Denver Parks and Recreation Department, please indicate "For Bison & Elk 1565-7010-4640-M29." Your contributions will be appreciated. (01/99)