Tesoro was pleased to host our annual 1840s Rendezvous & Spanish Colonial Art Market on the grounds of The Fort in September. Held each year in Morrison, Colo., this event commemorates the historical connections between the American mountain men and the Hispanic communities of Bent’s Old Fort (1833-1849). Bent’s Old Fort was an important fur trading post along the Santa Fe Trail. This event drew record-breaking attendance.
An exclusive, member-only Meet the Artists Patron Party on Friday evening kicked off the weekend’s festivities. Members had the first opportunity to purchase award-winning art, mingle with artists and mountain men, and revel in live music and entertainment in The Fort’s courtyard.
The following two days offered engaging and immersive fun for the whole family. Historical interpreters demonstrated day-to-day skills from the 1840s, such as tomahawk throwing and fire starting with flint and steel. Additional activities included storytelling in The Fort’s tipi, live music and performances by Fiesta Colorado, Rex Rideout and a Fandango by the Southwest Musicians, and there were crafts and a Rendezvous Scavenger Hunt for young learners. There were live eagle and hawk demonstrations provided by Hawkquest, and the Chicano Humanities & Arts Council was also onsite teaching the public about traditional Spanish art mediums and processes such as retablo and furniture making.
In addition to the hands-on learning opportunities throughout the event, Tesoro honored two individuals committed to excellent historical interpretation. Congratulations to Tesoro de Oro honoree, Martin Knife Chief, and Tesoro de Hoy honoree, Michael Schaubs. We commemorate them for their lifetime passion in keeping the history of the West alive!
Thank you to the artists, volunteers, participants, demonstrators and guests who made our 2018 event a success. We hope to welcome you again next year!
