Berthoud Pass Continental Divide Sign Photograph #CB-JX8
Brief Description
This is the scene on top of Berthoud Pass during the 1950s. This photo from the Coloradotopia archives shows the Continental Divide signs and historical marker. The Berthoud Pass lodge can be seen in the background on the far side of the parking lot.
Info
- Date: Circa 1954
- Photographer: Unknown
- Medium: Original Photograph
- Size: 3" x 4 3/4"
- ID: CB-JX8
- Acquisition Date: February 2024
- Repository: Coloradotopia Archives
Scanned with basic cropping, no enhancements.
Image use restricted.
Image Dating Comments
This image was likely captured in 1954. This is when this version of the Continental Divide sign is believed to have been added here. It is shown here with no graffiti, so the image was likely captured very soon after the sign was added.
Backside
Full Scan
Comments & Discussion
The sign shown here displays an elevation of 11,314′. This is 1 foot less than the signs of the 1940s. The elevation is listed at 11,307′ on the signs that are located here today.
There are more than 10 different versions of Berthoud Pass Continental Divide signs that have been photographed and documented in this archive. This one would be the last version that was added here by the state’s highway department. Future signs would be added by the US Forest Service.
Condition, Aging & Authenticity: This image has 1 major crack in the surface, and the right side has some obvious damage. The surface still has a glossy shine. The backside appears to have some darkening due to age. The Kodak Velox printing on the back is fading, but still easily visible.
About the Coloradotopia Archives. The Coloradotopia archives hold a large collection of historical images and items that document Colorado’s automobile history in the mountains. You can read more about the Coloradotopia archive project here.
