My father was president of Chautauqua Institution from the late 70’s to early 80’s. When my husband and I toured Boulder, CO last weekend it was a pleasure to see the Colorado Chautauqua.
Chautauqua has a long history of the arts, religion, education and recreation and was created over 150 years ago in western New York. Because a certain genius married the founder’s daughter, Chautauqua had the first outdoor electric lighting courtesy of Thomas Alva Edison.
Driving up to Table Mesa in Boulder, CO we came upon Chautauqua. The parking lots were filled with cars and there were walkers, dog owners, hikers around. We had a very short schedule so drove around a couple of loops and it reminded me of my Chautauqua.
Since then I’ve contacted the Executive Director, Susan Connelly, who kindly responded. I thanked her for keeping the Chautauqua spirit alive and she acknowledges Chautauqua Institution as the “mother ship.” I look forward to meeting her someday.
My parents moved to Chautauqua when I was a freshman in college. I worked summers there and learned a lot about haves and have-nots. Despite the ups and downs of dealing with “talent” it was a very interesting time. My father led Chautauqua for eight years and helped make it into what it is today.
When I was in fourth grade our school choir made it to the State competitionn and it was at the exclusive Chautauqua that we sang Panis Angelicus in the Ampthiteater, and we came in second. For our family to be there for eight years meant something different to each of us kids. I tried to get in as much art and lectures and ballet and symphony time I could.
I used to go back and see the folks that meant the most to me, the department heads, after I moved on. Now they’re all retired and we keep in touch from time to time. Now I’ve seen a Chautauqua that’s new to me, the Colorado Chautauqua. They have a concert hall but it wasn’t open yet when we visited. The Executive Director appreciates CI and I’m sure she looks forward to their upcoming season. We wish both Chautauqua’s well. Cheers, Dee
Cooking with Dee 