Exploring the Unknown American West
with Meriwether Lewis

On Thursday, February 22 Meriwether Lewis, as portrayed by Brian “Fox” Ellis, recounted his adventures during the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He shares an exciting blend of stories and song, journal excerpts, folklore, and more! All funds raised from this event will directly support the High Plains Chautauqua annual program July 31 – August 4, 2023.

Encountering grizzly bears and collecting soil samples, capturing prairie dogs and hunting for antelope, Lewis catalogued 122 new animal species and 178 new plants. In this original performance Lewis sings the praises of the geology, diverse flora and fauna, and the web of life that binds us to the land. The expedition was first and foremost a scientific expedition and this program brings the scientific process to life.  This presentation was a compelling portrayal that revealed Lewis not only as a brilliant commander, dedicated scientist, consummate frontiersman and savvy businessman, but also as a troubled soul. This exciting evening began with music, refreshments, and a presentation from a Young Chautauqua scholar, and will concluded with the announcement of the theme and character line-up for High Plains Chautauqua 2023!

To learn more about, or sponsor, High Plains Chautauqua, contact program coordinator Jennifer Macias at jennifer@coloradohumanities.org 303.894.7951 x17

Production of High Plains Chautauqua is a year-round labor of love. Contributions from friends and enthusiasts have enabled this program to become one of the foremost living history events nationwide. Since its beginning in 2000, HPC has flourished as a result of broad community support from local schools, volunteers, sponsors, thousands of attendees, and donors like you.

Thank you for donating today. Your gift is greatly appreciated.

501(c)(3) nonprofit Colorado Humanities administers donations for High Plains Chautauqua.

Join us this summer!

High Plains Chautauqua 2023 will take place July 31 – August 3. This unique combination of history and theater delivers education and entertainment in an engaging and memorable way. Events will take place on the campus of Aims Community College, and in other locations around Greeley. All events are open to the public and free of charge.

Revisit this page soon for this year’s theme, and updates on featured scholars!

Upcoming Events

Join Colorado Humanities in our upcoming events

Let’s Talk Walsenburg

June 8 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Grand Junction Chautauqua Festival

September 7 @ 8:00 am - September 9 @ 5:00 pm

History Live Durango

September 28 @ 8:00 am - September 29 @ 5:00 pm

GET INVOLVED TODAY

Colorado Humanities forges program partnerships statewide to improve education, strengthen cultural institutions and enrich community life. Your contribution makes you an important part of it.