Welcome to the site named after Elizabeth ‘Auntie’ Stone, a pivotal figure in the early history of Fort Collins, Colorado. Although the exact details of her residence aren’t available at this location, her influence in the area is undeniable and her story is worth exploring.
Elizabeth Stone, affectionately known as ‘Auntie,’ was one of the most influential women in Fort Collins’ early days. Born in 1801, Elizabeth moved to Colorado in 1862 with her husband, Lewis Stone. They initially settled near Laporte, then a booming hub due to its proximity to the Overland Trail. Elizabeth and Lewis Stone built a hotel and a stagecoach stop, essentially laying the groundwork for what would become a thriving community.
In 1864, the Stones moved to Fort Collins, where Elizabeth continued her legacy of hospitality and community building. Her home became a social center of the area. She was known for her warm demeanor and generous hospitality, offering meals and shelter to travelers and locals alike. Her nurturing spirit earned her the affectionate nickname ‘Auntie’ from both soldiers and settlers.
Auntie Stone’s significance goes beyond her role as a host. She was a pioneering spirit in a time when the West was still largely untamed. Her presence in Fort Collins helped establish a sense of community and stability in the area, encouraging others to settle and build permanent homes.
Over the years, Fort Collins has evolved from a military outpost to a bustling city, but Auntie Stone’s legacy remains. The area where she once lived and worked has transformed into a vibrant community, reflecting the pioneering spirit she embodied. Today, visitors and residents alike can still feel the echoes of her influence in the city’s welcoming atmosphere and community-focused culture.
As you explore Fort Collins, remember Auntie Stone, a testament to the enduring impact one individual can have on shaping the future of a community. Her story is a reminder of the power of hospitality, resilience, and the human spirit in forging new beginnings.
