A breeding pair of peregrine falcons with a nest full of chicks has squashed a 114-year-old Independence Day tradition at Colorado National Monument. It all began back in July of 1911 when Monument Superintendent John Otto first raised the American flag atop the iconic 450-foot sandstone pillar known as Independence Monument. Otto and his climbing partner hand drilled footholds and used iron pipes inserted into the rock to reach the top and fly the stars and stripes on the highest and most noble eminence of rock in all of Monument Canyon.
Since then there has been an annual re-enactment flag raising, most recently led by members of Mesa County Search and Rescue. Unfortunately this year a pair of peregrine falcons have established a nest on the climbing route and their chicks are not old enough to fledge the nest before the 4th of July. Instead of recreating the historic climb of 1911, park officials have opted for alternative Independence Day celebration:
“Park rangers and a climbing community representative will be at Independence Monument View with activities for kids and adults. Participants will learn about the legacy of John Otto, the significance of his historic climb, general climbing safety, monument history, peregrine falcons, and the importance of recreation and preservation. The American flag will be displayed at the overlook throughout the event.”
For those of you wishing to honor the spirit of John Otto’s patriot climb, head on out to Colorado National Monument from 9:00am to 12:pm on July 4th, 2025 and bring your binoculars, you might get to see some baby peregrines.
