Colorado Springs Gazette, March 25, 1922

Monument Hotel Burns in Early Morning Fire

One of Colorado’s oldest landmarks, the Monument Hotel, built in 1870, was burned to the ground yesterday morning when fire of unknown origin started in the east section of the building and rapidly enveloped the structure. Hotel guests were awakened by smoke and a roaring noise thru the main hall, and before the flames made any headway all took to safety.

The loss on the building is estimated at more than $10,000. The building is insured at $5,500.

The absence of a wind saved probable loss to other buildings nearby. The fire had been burning about 20 minutes, it is believed, before it was noticed. No efforts were made to stop the blaze, and guests stood by and watched personal belongings burned along with the building itself.

Two years ago Monument lost a building used as a post office and general store. Two men, Samuel Putman and Bail Simpson, were burned to death, and a considerable loss in the property was incurred.

Last year a building occupied by a restaurant and a pool hall was demolished by fire. The Monument Hotel was built by C.D. Ford of Denver.