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Willoughby: A patriotic wartime on July 4
By Tim Willoughby Follow at Aspen Times
· July 4, 2026
· 3 min read
This week, we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding. The contrast in Aspen ’s Fourth of July celebrations between 1917 and 1918 surrounding WWI are worth pondering when thinking about celebrating patriotism.
WWI had been ongoing for over two and a half years before America d...
Key takeaway The Smuggler Mine found a great ore body high in lead increasing in quality with depth, so they were about to start a new level, the 19th.
Why this matters in Aspen News
The contrast between Aspen's Fourth of July celebrations in 1917 and 1918 offers a unique lens through which to view the town's history. In 1917, the war effort was still in its infancy, and the town's mines were thriving, with the Smuggler Mine discovering a significant ore body. The Fourth of July celebration that year was a grand affair, with a parade, open-air concert, and auto and motorcycle races. However, by 1918, the war had become a daily focus, with many locals serving overseas. The town's celebration shifted to emphasize patriotism, with church bells ringing in unison to signal the start of the festivities. This change in tone reflects the town's ability to adapt to changing circumstances, a trait that still characterizes Aspen today. The town's history is marked by its ability to balance celebration with solemnity, a balance that continues to shape its community events and cultural identity.
About this story
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Category: local ·
Published: July 4, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? This week, we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding. The contrast in Aspen’s Fourth of July celebrations between 1917 and 1918 surrounding WWI are worth pondering when thinking about celebrating patriotism.
WWI had been ongoing for over two and a half years before America d...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 4, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Tim Willoughby Follow 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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