Hide and Sneak
A key entrance to Denver, tunnels were dug to allow famous (or infamous) people to sneak into town. These tunnels ran to hotels, Turkish baths and other places (many of ill-repute.) Before you go searching, BEWARE! The tunnels have long been filled in.
No Rabbit Food
A restaurant inside the station used to feature five-star food including a t-bone for $1.65 or New York steak for $2.25. Sorry, vegetarians, salad was not a main dish. The best you could hope for was scallops or shrimp for $1.25. However, fruit pie was only $.15 so eat dessert for dinner!
Making a Cleaning
Noted bunco artist “Soapy” Smith started his criminal empire on a Union Station corner using the scam of money-wrapped soap bars. A shill would pick pre-arranged piece of soap from a barrel proving one could win a $100 for a $.10 bar. No one else ever won.
A Different Type of Soapbox Scam – Politics!
No stranger to politics, the station has hosted many dignitaries over the years. Presidents such as Roosevelt, Truman and Taft have all stomped in Denver during their campaigns. Sometimes, candidates moved directly to a platform set up in front of the station. After speaking to the crowd, they’d return to the train and leave. This was the only way for voters to see and hear a politician talk.
Comings and Goings
The once-present MIZPAH arch was designed by an East High student. On the opposite side of the welcome, was the traditional Hebrew blessing of departure – Genesis 31:49 – “May the Lord keep watch over between you and me when we are out of each other’s sight.” Mizpah necklaces were a fad of the 80’s.
LoDo History 