Back in Time | Aspen

“The extent to which Aspen boys have carried their larks lately reaches that point at which it has become necessary for the police to interfere,” declared the Aspen Daily Times on May 23, 1889.

“Three lads, between the ages of 8 and 13, went out for a time on Wednesday night, stole a bottle of the best 8-year-old rye whiskey, went into the vacant building and drank it up, without water, syrup, or any of the trimmings customary with old topers. Their three mothers were at the police station or, engine house, rather, at 2 o’clock yesterday morning frantic because they had not turned up.

Marshal Crowder soon found them, however, and a more drunken, limp, and mellow set of boys was never seen. Not one of the three could navigate without assistance, and the tallest child could not even stand up. After a short consultation, the mothers of the boys agreed to whip them all soundly, and they were assisted home.”

Aspen Historical Society actively preserves and passionately presents local history in an inspired and provocative manner that will continue to anchor the local community and its evolving character. For more, visit aspenhistory.org.