From the Vault: A Valentine’s Day affair

“The St. Valentine’s ball given at the Armory hall last evening was one of the most enjoyable affairs of the season,” stated the Aspen Evening Chronicle on Feb. 14, 1891. “The music was furnished by Professor Weston’s orchestra and was excellent. About 100 couples were present and participated in the enjoyment, and but very few were there who did not take part in the dance. Folded valentines were given to each person and when the ‘valentine quadrille’ was half finished the music ceased playing and the floor manager ordered ladies and gentlemen to exchange, and the ladies handed their partners the valentines which they had received, receiving the one held by their partners in exchange. Then each one was unfolded and confusion and laughter followed. Two prizes were offered by the manager; one for the best lady dancer, and the other for the best dancer among the gentlemen. Three judges were chosen and the dance for the prize commenced with six couples as contestants. The prize dance was a waltz. The first prize, a beautiful satin valentine about 12 inches square, was presented to Mrs. Andrews, and the second, a large comic picture, was presented to Mr. George Smith.” The photograph above shows the town of Aspen, taken from Aspen Mountain circa 1900.

This photo and more can be found in the Aspen Historical Society archives at aspenhistory.org.