John Otto (park ranger) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Otto
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Statue of John Otto on horseback
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John Otto (born December 30, 1870 – died June 19, 1952) was a very important person in the history of Colorado National Monument. He was the first park custodian, which means he was the first person hired to take care of the park. John Otto worked hard to make the area a national monument and later helped it become part of the National Park System.
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John Otto: The Park's First Champion
John Otto was known as a "trail builder" and a bit of an "eccentric," meaning he had unique ways. He arrived in Grand Junction, Colorado in 1906. He helped build a water pipe system for the town. While doing this, he explored the amazing canyons and mountains nearby.
In 1907, John Otto wrote something special about the area: "I came here last year and found these canyons, and they felt like the heart of the world to me. I'm going to stay and promote this place, because it should be a national park." This shows how much he loved the land.
Creating a National Monument
Because of John Otto's passion and hard work, other people started to notice the beautiful canyons. By 1909, the local newspaper was also asking for the area to become a national park.
Their efforts paid off! On May 24, 1911, the area was officially named Colorado National Monument. John Otto was then hired as the Monument's very first custodian. He earned one dollar each month for his work until he left the job in 1929.
The Trail Builder and Explorer
John Otto was a fantastic guide who knew every part of the monument. He took care of it as if it were his own special kingdom. One of his biggest achievements was carving a steep stairway up Independence Monument. This is the largest rock tower in the park. After the park was created, he climbed this huge rock and raised an American flag on top!
Newspapers and magazines often called him "The Trail Builder" or "The Hermit of Monument Park." He was almost always seen with his two burros, named Foxie and Cookie. These burros helped him carry his camping gear and supplies as he explored and worked on trails.
Later Life and Legacy
John Otto was born in Marthasville, Missouri. He spent his final twenty years living near Yreka, California.
In 2002, the Colorado National Monument Association honored John Otto. They put up a special gravestone for him. It was carved from a sandstone rock that looked like Independence Monument, the very rock he loved to climb. This memorial helps us remember John Otto's amazing dedication to protecting and sharing the beauty of Colorado National Monument.
