Old Homestead Museum
Join Us for Pearl DeVere Day: A Legendary Celebration in Cripple Creek, set for Saturday, June 7.
Get ready to step back in time and honor one of Cripple Creek’s most iconic and colorful figures—Pearl DeVere! We’re celebrating her enduring legacy with a day full of fun, flair, and a touch of the Wild West.
The event highlights include: Bed Races down the historic 300 block of Myers Avenue, right in the heart of the Red-Light District; a Classy Pearl Contest – dress to impress like the elegant madame herself; and live music by local favorite Six Bucks and a Flight. The Beer Garden opens at 10 a.m. and other highlights include Food Trucks & Local Vendors and a Cornhole Tournament with prizes and bragging rights up for grabs.
The event highlights the legacy of Pearl DeVere.
Pearl DeVere arrived in Cripple Creek in the winter of 1892 and quickly became a local legend. She built and ran the Old Homestead House—an exclusive brothel known for its luxury and discretion, serving only the wealthiest clients. After a fire in April 1896, she rebuilt the establishment in brick, that drew admirers from across the state. Though Pearl passed away on June 5, 1897, her legacy lives on in Cripple Creek history and in the very walls of the 129-year-old Homestead House. Pearl DeVere Day not only honors her legacy but helps raise funds for the preservation of this historic landmark.
Want to join the fun?
Bed Races: Teams of 3 can bring their own bed or rent one of ours. Rules and registration available by emailing ohomesteadhouse@gmail.com Check-in starts at 10 a.m. and the first race takes off at high noon! Classy Pearl Contest: Channel Pearl’s elegance—think high style, not high scandal. Gowns, poise, and grace are the key. Entry is just $5, and judging will take place at 11:30 before the races start.
Stick around after the races for great music, cold drinks, and plenty of laughs as we toast to the original lady of Cripple Creek. Don’t miss it—Pearl wouldn’t want you to!
For more information, call 719-689-2485 or 719-371-1936.
*About the Museum Board:
The Old Homestead Museum Board 501c(3) was formed in 1999 for the preservation and operation of the museum. The group has raised enough money to purchase the furnishings and artifacts of the house and purchased the building. The last 5 years have been restoration and rehabilitation of the 139-year-old house, which needs tender loving care. The goal of The Board, comprised of seven caring local-area residents, is to ensure that this piece of Colorado History is preserved for future generations to learn how life was in the days when the West was wild, and Cripple Creek was one of the hottest places in the county.
