local
Saddle Sore: What’s in a name?
By Tony Vagneur Follow
ajv@sopris.net at Aspen Times
· July 11, 2026
· 4 min read
Back when, around the years I’d got back after college, the Aspen Inn Club was a favorite of party folks around town, yours truly no exception. On one particular night, absolutely no agenda in mind, a friendly young girl whose face I’ve long-forgotten but whose mind was as sharp as a steel trap, ...
Key takeaway “My father is writing a book about Walter Pepka,” she said.
Why this matters in Aspen News
The nuances of local pronunciation are a reflection of Aspen's rich history and cultural heritage. The correct pronunciation of names like Paepcke, Koch, and Seibert may seem like a minor detail, but it speaks to the town's strong sense of identity and tradition. For long-time residents, using the authentic pronunciation is a way of showing respect for the families and individuals who have shaped the community. The fact that Mrs. Paepcke herself introduced herself as Mrs. Pepkey underscores the significance of using the correct pronunciation. As the town continues to evolve and grow, preserving these small pieces of history is crucial to maintaining its unique character. By using the authentic pronunciation, locals and visitors alike can connect with the town's past and appreciate the stories behind the names that are woven into the fabric of Aspen's history. This attention to detail is a testament to the town's strong sense of place and community.
About this story
Original reporting by Aspen Times . Aspen News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Aspen Times . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 11, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Back when, around the years I’d got back after college, the Aspen Inn Club was a favorite of party folks around town, yours truly no exception. On one particular night, absolutely no agenda in mind, a friendly young girl whose face I’ve long-forgotten but whose mind was as sharp as a steel trap, ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 11, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Tony Vagneur Follow
ajv@sopris.net at Aspen Times. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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