+ The Beginning: Turkey Rock Ranch Estates (est. 1965)

Turkey Rock Ranch Estates was established September 16, 1965, when Fred Frederick purchased the private land in section 9, township 115, range 70W from Woodland Real Estate, Inc., who had acquired it from the estate of Thomas H. Talmage on May 28, 1965. The owners next were listed as Fred and Billie Lou Frederick, Harold F. and Dorothy G. Blick, Hubert L. and Muriel C. Appleby, and Ken R. and Betty J. Kjelstrup. Shortly thereafter, Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc. was formed, with Hubert Appleby as president and Fred Frederick as secretary.

Filing number 1 was recorded January 21, 1966. This consisted of lots 1 to 172. The small area around the original ranch buildings and the land for the golf course was not divided and numbered as lots. The area sub- divided included the northeast corner, the central section north to the top of the hill, and the south section along Turkey Creek. Filing number 2 was opened on July 19, 1967, encompassing the northern and western part of Turkey Rock Ranch Estates. These lots were numbered from 173 to 310, with Maples Tract and Tract B undivided and unnumbered. Tract B was later divided into eleven lots.

The brochure called this “Pikes Peak Region's most beautiful cabin home- sites.” “Plan your Great Escape at Turkey Rock Ranch Estates.” The area encompassed 360 acres. Small lakes were constructed from Turkey Creek to provide private fishing. A nine-hole sand-green golf course was laid out. Roads were constructed to provide access to all the lots. Other attractions mentioned in the brochure were hunting, trails for riding or hiking, skiing and tobogganing not far away, snowmobiling. Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc. offered to build you a custom home, with bank financing.

"Turkey Rock Ranch Estates represents mountain living at its best, easy to get to, low terms, fishing, hiking, golfing, hunting and many more benefits. Do it now… investigate Turkey Rock Ranch Estates, Westcreek, Colorado."

Cabin builders the first year included Harold Croak, Marion Cody and Doris Walker, Dale Brooks, Arthur M. Oaks, John Hedges, and William J. Peyser. Other early cabins include Velma Stumpf, Thelma Munn (first stage), Bruce Caulder (later owners were Marcia Davis, Janet Chamberlain and R. Regnier), Don Metzger, Daniel Kirschner (later -- Lynn Fleharty), Jeff Mock (later -- Ralph Stormer) P. W. LeBeau (original owner?, now H. M. Smith). Elmer Hoffman (now William Fraser), Ralph Cunningham, Duane Rutherford, J. R. Myers (original owner? later Paul Black) and John Alexander (original owner unknown to me). In filing 2, early cabins (probably started in 1967) include Russ and Connie Barnes, Martha Ellis (later Dean Zeigler, Hugh Pitzer, and Ronald Welton), Claude and Nyleeh Asp, and Frank James (later, Keith Lowry). In 1969, Dan and Virginia Carter started their cabin. The Radosevich cabin, now owned by Howard Lietz, was assessed in 1969, partially constructed. By 1972, the cabins of George Fort, Glen Hart, Joe Jakcsy, William Lees, C. S. Hendrickson, G. T. Farmer (later --

M. M. Wilson and LeRoy Armstrong), Robert Taylor, Ken Kjelstrup (now Tom Mahoney), and A. A. Treble (now Roy Mahan) were part of Turkey Rock Ranch Estates. The County Assessors do not seem to have checked every year, so we do not know the exact year these cabins were built.

Several of these cabins were owner-built over a period of time, and some have since had additions. Of the early homes, only Thelma Munn and Daniel Kirschner built theirs as permanent year-round homes. No building permits were required in Teller County until 1974. Several of the early cabins were built without wells, depending on a cistern for water, filled from the spring feeding into the Kiddie Pond at the east edge of the property. By 1985 this water supply had ceased to supply these needs. With the establishment of building permits, wells also were required. Several of the earlier cabins also added wells, so that only a few now depend on the cisterns.

For the first two years, the old ranch house was used as the sales office. Then the A-frame on lot 171 on Appleby Drive was built in 1968 and functioned as sales office until 1971. The Ranch area was sold to Dr. Robert Edgar, who has leased out some of the buildings.

Teller County zoned Turkey Rock Ranch Estates as R-l -- one-family residences only.

Covenants were established by Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc. to ensure the continued use of the area "as a carefully protected residential community." The covenants were included as part of the sale agreements. As Teller County had very few building regulations at that time, the covenants helped to provide some control over construction in the area. Lots are to be used for residential purposes only. One single family dwelling of not less than 480 square feet and a private garage may be erected; specifically no permanent trailer homes nor outside toilets shall be allowed. No livestock is to be permitted except one horse with one or more lots. No hunting or discharging of firearms is allowed within the boundaries of Turkey Rock Ranch Estates. Construction plans and location were to be approved by "sellers”, and this function was later assumed by the Turkey Rock Rec. Association. The covenants were established February 1966 to run for 25 years and to automatically renew unless revised by a majority of the owners.

Names of the developers were used for roads in Filing 1 - Frederick Drive, Blick Drive, Appleby Drive, and Kjelstrup Drive. The origin of the other names is unknown. John Hedges told me that the Developers named roads and lakes in Filing 2 after persons who had made purchases the first year -- Brooks Lane (Dale Brooks), Hedges Circle (John Hedges), Mock Drive (J. D. Mock), and Oaks Way (Bus Oaks). Names of some of the lakes can be directly associated with residents -- Croak Lake, Alberta Lake (Mrs. A.M. Oaks), Mary Jane Lake (Mrs. Dale Brooks), Lake Elmer (Elmer Hoffman), Lake Rutherford, Lake Kirby, Lake Rudy, and Lake Barnes. There were several additional lakes at the beginning. See later information about the flood.

Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc. had constructed the roads at the time the area was first platted and dedicated them to the County as part of the plat. However, the County Commissioners of Teller County refused to accept them for maintenance for several years. Road maintenance fell to the Developers, as well as the care of the recreational lands and office cabin. Fish were stocked by them in the lakes for the fishing pleasure of all owners, the golf course was maintained, and in winter, a lake was cleared for ice skating. Most property owners took these services for granted, so, when the Developers were no longer at Turkey Rock to pro- vide the services, the Turkey Rock Rec. Association and individual owners were faced with many problems.

Electric lines were available through the Intermountain Rural Electric Association. Property owners wishing service had only to pay a $5.00 membership fee in REA, but there could be several weeks wait.

Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc., tried unsuccessfully to get telephone service to the area. Petitions to Mountain Bell were signed, but the company was not interested until these owners were ready for service to their homes. Thus started the long wait and difficult negotiations to obtain general telephone service.

The Manitou Park Telephone Company had been established in the late 1940’s to provide phone service to the ranchers north of Woodland Park. This Company was wholly owned by the users, who were responsible for the installation and maintenance of their own service, including certain sections of the main line. The Ranch had a telephone and Thelma Munn acquired that share. She generously allowed others to use the phone and delivered messages (simplified several years later by installation of CB base stations).

During the years of active sales of lots at Turkey Rock, Fred Frederick often manned the sales office at the cabin at Turkey Rock. Another sales office was maintained in Woodland Park. Colorful banners announced the development at the turnoff from Highway 67 at West Creek. Around 1970, Kenny Kjelstrup moved into the office cabin and handled sales and maintenance, as well as building his own cabin on Overlook Circle. By late 1970, only a few lots remained unsold. It was evident that Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc., would soon be gone.

+ The Organization: Turkey Rock Recreation Association (est. 1970)

In the early literature, the Developers had indicated that they would form a tax-supported recreation district for the common property. However, in 1970, they decided that a non-profit corporation of property-owners would be more suitable. On September 28, 1970, they filed with the Secretary of State of Colorado for incorporation of the TURKEY ROCK REC. ASSOCIATION, a not for profit corporation. The purpose was stated as follows:

"to provide recreation and recreational facilities in or about or in the vicinity of that tract of land in Teller County, Colorado, described as Turkey Rock Ranch Estates (as shown on the recorded plat thereof), to such persons or parties owning real property in said Turkey Rock Ranch Estates as may become members of the Corporation pursuant to the membership provisions of the By-laws…"

The initial Board of Directors was established with five members -- Arthur M. Oaks, Walter I. Speer, R. R. Barnes, Dale Brooks, and K. R. Kjelstrup, to serve until a permanent Board of Directors was elected. Incorporators were H. L. Appleby, Harold F. Blick, and Fred L. Frederick. Later, when queried about the decision not to create a recreational district, the answer was that the mill levy would not be sufficient.

The next information on organization that we have is minutes of a meeting on January 10, 1971, which indicate that property owners got together to discuss an organization for the purpose of maintaining, upkeep and policing our area. The following officers were elected: President, Ken Kjelstrup; Vice-president, Russ Barnes; Secretary-treasurer, W. J. (Bill) Peyser. The other directors were listed as Daniel Kirschner, Robert Taylor, Arthur M. (Bus) Oaks, and Dale R. Brooks. Even though the aims Expressed were different from those established in the Articles of Incorporation, and another Board of Directors was elected of seven rather than five members, we assume that this was meant as a start toward the implementation of the Turkey Rock Rec. Association.

On January 24, 1971, a meeting was held with Hugh Ross, an attorney, in attendance. The name Turkey Rock Association was suggested. Other organizational matters were discussed. Information was given as to what property Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc. would transfer to the property owners. This included transfer of common properties, equipment, and the sale of the cabin. Another meeting was called for February 7 to work on by-laws, but no minutes of this meeting exist.

Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc. sent out letters to all property owners of Turkey Rock Ranch Estates, giving notice of a meeting to be held on the 28th of March 1971, at 2 P.M. at the Gables Restaurant,5500 North Nevada Avenue, Colorado Springs. (Bill Peyser owned the restaurant).

"The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the formation of Turkey Rock Rec. Association and the purchasing of memberships in this association by owners of property in Turkey Rock Ranch Estates and the privileges and use of recreational facilities afforded under such memberships."

The March 28 meeting attracted a large group of property owners. Ken Kjelstrup presided, explaining the purposes of the meeting. There were several very vocal property owners who felt that they had the right to fishing as part of their ownership in their Turkey Rock property and were not going to support an organization. Some blamed the Developers (criticism directed mostly to Kenny as representing the Developers as well as the property owners), feeling that such costs as future upkeep of common property should not be charged to individual properties. Others, however, had realized than an association was the logical step to take to protect the common property. When Russ Barnes was elected temporary chairman, Ken Kjelstrup was relieved to be out of the hot seat. The temporary board of seven members was the same as that established at the January meeting except for the election of Marion Cody to replace Daniel Kirschner. Marion tells that Ken had her and Doris Walker draw straws to see which one was to be on the Board. After considerable discussion, the group passed the motions relating to the establishment of the organization. (Apparently the dissenters were more vocal than numerous.) Accepted were the Articles of Incorporation as filed by Appleby, Blick, and Frederick, the name Turkey Rock Rec. Association, the deeds to the property, and some equipment for the payment of $1. A second general meeting of all property owners was set for April 25, 1971, to establish By-laws and Rules and regulations, and for the presentation of a tentative budget and suggested dues.

The meeting notice sent out in early April included tentative By-laws, Rules and Regulations, and budget and dues schedule, with a ballot for absentee voting. Approximately 100 property owners helped develop the By-laws and Regulations, according to the newsletter sent out after the meeting. A number of changes were made in the By-laws before they were adopted. Membership dues was set at $55 for general and $45 for recreational, totaling $100, effective until June 30, 1972. The permanent Board of Directors of eleven persons was elected for one year (as established by the By-laws). This included all seven of those elected to the temporary board on March 28, plus Ralph Cesario, Barrett Kirby, Richard MacSalka, and William J. Rudy. The Board of Directors met following the general meeting and elected Russell Barnes as president; Ralph Cesario as vice-president, and William J. Rudy, as secretary- treasurer.

Turkey Rock Rec. Association was finally off the ground.

+ In Operation: 1971

The Board of Directors had many decisions to make. At the next meeting, a contract for the purchase of the cabin and lot 171 was approved at a cost of $9500, with payments arranged at the Park State Bank in Woodland Park of $90.79 per month at 8%. Kenny Kjelstrup was hired as caretaker for six months, requesting that he be deputized by the Teller County sheriff, which was done. Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc. then asked for the rental of the cabin for six months, which was approved. Marion Cody designed the membership card. It was decided to order 500 badges for fishermen. A grounds committee was appointed with Marion Cody, chairman. Letters were sent out about covenant violations. Signs for trails and lakes in the shape of a red turkey were ordered.

As Kenny was still the representative of Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc., he continued to live at the cabin under the rental agreement, meanwhile building himself a cabin on Overlook Circle. He combined this job with that of the caretaker for the Association, in checking security and helping to apprehend vandals, maintaining roads and the golf course, continuing to show lots to prospective buyers, and giving freely of advice and help to all property owners and builders. Kenny was well liked by the property owners.

Letters about the Association, the by-laws and the rules and regulations and an application for membership were sent to all property owners. However, by April, only 76 members out of the 210 property owners had paid dues, a very disappointing proportion. Another letter was sent, so by the end of the fiscal year the membership had crept up to 85.

At the April 30 Board meeting, it was reported that Ken Kjelstrup had left the area. Al Brandt was hired as caretaker, to include the use of the cabin and utilities, working only about eight hours a week. He stayed until September. Negotiations with the Teller County Commissioners ended with a statement that the County would not assume responsibility for maintenance of roads. This presented another problem for the Association. Jakcsy Lake dam had been washed out during the winter, and Claire King repaired it.

Arrangements were made with the Post Office to deliver mail to boxes in front of the office. This also brought assurance that the County would maintain the road to that point. Previous to this time, the permanent residents had maintained a box near West Creek. West Creek had had a U.S. Post Office from the boom times of the 1890's until sometime in the 1960’s. In the early days, mail was brought to this post office, by contract carrier, from the railroad stop at Sedalia. In more recent years, the mail has been trucked from Denver to Sedalia. We do not know why the route was established through Sedalia. Perhaps it was more convenient than sending it on to Colorado Springs and changing trains to Woodland Park -- or possibly there was still no train to Woodland Park. Even in the early period, West Creek was closely aligned with Woodland Park, as the area was providing timbers for ties for the construction of the Midland Railroad.

Recreation during the year was provided by stocking the lakes with fish on four occasions, using all the money paid in recreational dues by 63 members.

In August of 1971, the developers and the association had joined in a barbecue for about 200 members and guests. "Property owners made new acquaintances and the developers sold a few more lots." (Annual report)

There had been a scare on Memorial Day weekend when a careless camper caused a fire at Big Turkey Camp Ground. Turkey Rockers helped contain the fire before it threatened our area.

+ Can the Turkey Rock Rec. Association Survive? 1971-72

The second annual meeting was called for June 27, 1972 at the Gables Restaurant. Before the meeting, by-laws changes had been worked out. These included the election of nine directors for staggered three year terms. The arrears penalty was to be set at $100 instead of all back dues. The amendments carried. To implement this change, three directors were elected for each of the terms. Elected for one year were Norma Croak, Bus Oaks, and Leon Smith; for two years -- Dale Brooks, Marion Cody, and Thaine Sanford, and for three years -- Barrett Kirby, Bruce Caulder, and Bill Rudy. Officers elected were Barrett Kirby, president, Dale Brooks, vice-president, Bill Rudy, secretary, and Norma Croak, treasurer. The arrears penalty was waived for 1971-72.

General dues were increased to $65 and dropped to $35 for fishing membership. However, golf was to be included in the general membership category with only the fishing dues as extra. The funds had not stretched far enough the previous year to pay for a caretaker on a full-time basis in addition to other necessary expenditures. However, since the Association would have to continue road maintenance, some arrangement was necessary. There seemed to be no way that Al Brandt could be offered a full-time caretaker job.

The Association contracted with Claire King to do road maintenance and snow removal for the winter. Most of the snow removal was done by his son Larry. Claire was also hired to improve Anderson Drive "since Mr. Holly is now a member.' and owned lots 86 and 87 at the top of the Drive.

A membership campaign opened this second year with an emphasis on personal contact, whenever possible. It did have some success, as the total membership by the end of this second year was 124 with 57 fishing members (50% more than the previous year).

To cut down on outsiders and on vandalism, the Board approved a gate and chain across the road just beyond the caretaker's cabin. Each property member was given a key to the padlock, but there were many inconveniences.

After Brandt's resignation in September, Steve Mallett moved into the cabin in November, but stayed only one month. At the February meeting of the Board, Don Clowes offered to serve as caretaker, with reduced duties, in exchange for housing. Don was a disabled Vietnam veteran recently released from the hospital. Within a couple of months, Don was handling the tractor, grading roads, and helping property owners with remarkable ability. He and his family stayed two years.

+ The Flood: May 5-6, 1973

Disaster struck. A Board meeting was held at Dale Brooks's cabin on Saturday, May 5, at which it was reported that the storm had taken out Lenze Lake (far south), damaged Jakcsy Lake dam, and the culvert at Turkey Creek Drive. The snow had begun falling in early morning and around noon was extremely heavy, coming down at the rate of two inches per hour, according to the Ute Pass Courier of May 10. As Marion Cody tells it, the storm continued during the meeting, with thunder, lightning, and wet snow, so everyone headed for home as soon as possible. Roads were already slippery. Creeks everywhere were running high. The road near the Stumps was badly washed, leaving Marion and Doris wondering if they would even get out to the highway. By 10 P.M., 19 inches of snow had fallen, according to the paper. Lynn Fleharty says that he and Don were sure that it was much deeper than that at the height of the storm, but being so wet, it settled quickly. Trees snapped and branches came down, power lines were knocked out from the ice, snow, and broken trees. The newspaper reported that 1000 people north of Woodland Park were without power, some for several days. The moisture content the first day was 1.68 and on Sunday .16 inches.

Sunday temperatures were just above the freezing mark for highs. Travel was treacherous. The streets in Woodland Park were passible only for 4-wheel-drive vehicles, and Woodland Park Search and Rescue worked all day and most of the night rescuing motorists stuck along highway 67 north of Woodland Park, according to the newspaper.

Monday and Tuesday the temperature shot up to 60°, and that snow started melting quickly. Runoff was tremendous. Slide Lake, north of Westcreek, broke about 8 P.M. Tuesday night. (Slide Lake, officially Lake Thomas, had originated in the late 1940’s from a rock slide that dammed up the creek. Hence its popular name. The Colorado Division of Game and Fish had decided to acknowledge it as a lake and had stocked it, producing a popular fishing spot.) The five-foot wall of water tore out huge sections of the highway, destroyed three cabins and damaged others, but did not do any damage at Deckers. The highway engineer reported “Highway 67 damages were far too extensive for any immediate repair... The highway will probably remain closed for several months”. (Ute Pass Courier, 5/10/73). However, two weeks later, the paper reported that limited travel had been reestablished on highway 67 with the use of a "pioneer road" which is very narrow and very dangerous at some locations. Shortly, fairly good detours were established. When the repairs were finally finished and the new black-top spread, it was one of the smoothest roads in Colorado -- a delight to drive.

At Pine Lakes, the spillway washed out at the lower lake. "Tuesday night's failure of lower Pine Lakes dam washed out a bridge at the Westcreek settlement. The bridge was seen Wednesday morning lying in the bed of the empty Slide Lake." The other dams were being watched very carefully as runoff continued high on Wednesday. The Courier reported that the break at Pine Lakes was three hours after Slide Lake disappeared. It had been rumored that the failure of the Pine Lakes dam caused the washout of Slide Lake and the subsequent flooding below. A lawsuit had later been considered against Pine Lakes, but if the newspaper report is correct, Pine Lakes had no responsibility for the downstream damage. The road at the Westcreek bridge was closed from Tuesday night until Sunday. At Westcreek, Claire King was taking people across the stream in his Amphicat and providing shuttle on to wherever needed. A newspaper photographer got his shots that way, and Harold Croak mentioned it as the only way to Turkey Rock for a few days.

Turkey Rock was really isolated. Lynn Fleharty says Janet and he were able to get out to go to work on Monday about a half day late and came back that evening. The next day water was too high at Westcreek so they went out by way of the Painted Rocks Road. By evening, that bridge also had gone, so that they were marooned outside for several days. The newspaper indicated that as of May 16 (ten days after the flood) only two Teller County roads remained closed, and one of these was the Painted Rocks Road. The paper indicated that the Engineering Battalion from Fort Carson had put in a temporary bridge and the road would be open as soon as road crews finished grading.

Turkey Rock lost eighteen dams, and all the roads crossing the stream. No-one seems to remember just when the dams went out, but it must have been after the snow started melting, except for the early damage reported at the May 5 meeting. Since Teller County had refused to accept the roads in Turkey Rock for maintenance, and especially did not like roads that were also dams (the dam was the responsibility of the owner), there was no ready assistance. Eventually, the County did agree to repair Turkey Creek Drive. It was announced at the June 2 Board meeting that George Stapish did the work and would be paid by Teller County. That put Lake Elmer back into existence.

The problem of the Turkey Rock dams and roads was brought up at the Annual meeting on May 20. A large number of the lots could not be reached at that time. The membership authorized the Board of Directors to proceed with repairs and to explore possible sources of funds. George Stapish made an estimate for repairs at $11,000, on the basis of making fewer dams than previously existed. He was awarded the job and paid $1,000 from the 1972/73 general fund. The work was to be done in two phases. The first phase involved the re-establishment of the roads -- Dennis Drive and Valley Drive -- and construction of the four upper dams and the two just below Turkey Creek Drive. Lake Jakcsy and three lower lakes were the second phase, to be done later. Some work was done immediately to give access to the south-east hill. The last of the work apparently was not done until late in the fall, as a solicitation for funds dated November 1, 1973, indicated that the first phase had now been finished. Norma Croak says there was not a lake in front of their house for a considerable time.

Barrett Kirby, the president, and other Board members checked the possibility of outside funds. An application was submitted for Federal Disaster Program funds, and Board members attended a meeting to present their case, but it was ruled that since Turkey Rock was a recreation area it was not eligible for the Federal Disaster program. Two letters were sent out to all property owners asking for donations. $3200 was received -- about half what was needed. Of this amount, only $390 came from non-member property owners and Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc. gave $500. The November 1 letter also mentioned that work crews of members had helped clean out debris, haul rock and perform other tasks to help keep the costs down. The total charges could not be paid at the time work was finished. A final payment of $1700 was carried over and paid in August of 1974 from the 1974/75 general fund. Thus the members (less than 50% of the property owners) paid over 85% of the cost of repairs.

Since there was no money available for phase 2, that work was postponed until the summer of 1975.

During the summer of 1974, Wildhorn had made some repairs to the spillway of their large dam which raised the water level. George Stapish, having built that dam, knew that the increased amount of water was not advisable. He did not want to do any work at Turkey Rock until he was sure that the Wildhorn lake was in good condition. A formal protest was lodged with the Colorado Division of Water Resources. Engineers made an investigation and ordered the dam returned to its original specifications.

With a down payment of $2.000 in mid-July 1975, Stapish was ready to work on phase 2. In restoring Jakcsy Lake dam, a flood gate was inserted that could completely drain the lake if danger threatened again. Lynn Fleharty says that the Board members had felt so helpless at the time of the flood because they had no way to control the water -- could only wait for one dam after another to go out. An L-shaped culvert was also put in so that there was no open spillway. Mr. Webster had previously used the dam as a road to his property. In the restoration, the Board decided not to build it with the extra strength needed for a road, as Webster should have access to his lots from. above. However, in later years, this dam has been used for limited traffic, at the property-owner's risk.

At the November 9 Board meeting, it was reported that the flood restoration work was finished, except for hauling some more rock for spillways. The lakes had been stocked and the dams and banks seeded. Funds were again solicited, but-again were far below the needed money. A spaghetti supper was held at which time more solicitations were made. Finally, a garage sale was held August 28-29, 1976, at Don Clowes's home in Woodland Park. In September the final payment was made on the flood restoration. It took $15,287 and 2½ years’ woork, with 3½ years to pay, to restore what was damaged in three days.

+ Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch: 1973-75

At the May 20, 1973, Annual Meeting, Lynn Fleharty was elected to the Board of Directors. He replaced Bus Oaks, who was finishing a one-year term. He served on the roads and grounds committee and the flood restoration committee during a very crucial period. On July 31, Bruce Caulder resigned, having sold his property at Turkey Rock, and Bus was appointed as his replacement for the balance of the year. (Bus's break in service was only one month long. Except for that break, Bus served from 1970 to 1978). Norma Croak and Leon Smith were reelected. During the 1973/74 year, most of the emphasis was on the flood restoration. Barrett Kirby continued as president, and other officers also continued as in the previous year. A survey was made of the mistletoe in the ponderosa pine, and property owners were notified to take some action where trees were infested. The back porch was built onto the cabin, the Ben Franklin stove installed, and the Board asked Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc. to take down the flashing lighted sign at the Westcreek turnoff. Because of the propane shortage, Empire Gas had indicated that they would service permanent residents first.

An application was made to Teller County Commissioners for road maintenance, according to the minutes of March 24, 1974. A new policy had been established whereby the County would maintain roads in subdivisions in relationship to the assessed valuation. Turkey Rock applied for 4.8 miles of road maintenance on the basis of nearly $244,000 assessed valuation. The road request was granted. Meanwhile, for the previous months, Don Clowes was doing the snow-plowing with the small tractor. The tractor had been unable to handle one deep snow, and George Stapish was hired to clear the roads for this storm. At the April meeting, it was reported that the County grader had been in once. During the summer, the County spent three weeks working on the roads. “We now have County road maintenance on part of the roads." At first, it was thought that we could continue our policy of locked gates. but the County insisted otherwise. Gates near the Off- ice were taken down. However, the one leading to the Cody-Walker cabin was not taken down, as that section was not part of the road maintenance.

Turkey Rock Ranch, Inc., sold its remaining nineteen lots to James Mc- Bride, a realtor. Since the company carried a number of the mortgages, it did not go out of existence until 1986.

1973/74 had 111 members, down just three from the previous year.

On May 19, 1974, the Annual Meeting was held at the Elks Club in Colorado Springs. Marion Cody and Dale Brooks were reelected, and Thelma Munn was a new Board member. Bus Oaks was elected to continue one year the term to which he had been appointed. Bll Rudy was elected president, the first year of 7½ years as president. Lynn Fleharty was elected vice-president, Dale Brooks, secretary, and Norma Croak continued as treasurer. General dues remained as for the previous year at $65 with a $10 discount if paid by September 1; fishing dues were set at $30. In addition to the business meeting, a representative of the Colorado State Forest Service discussed the mistletoe problem.

1974 started off with the final payment being made in August to Stapish for phase I of the lake restoration. Lakes were renamed and signs posted, with three limited to lures or flies only. The Board had other matters to deal with in addition to the lakes. Paul Black's cabin was partially dam- aged by fire on July 28. A discussion about the best way to protect the area followed, but no action was taken. The old jeep was sold and the money used for a new blade for the tractor. The death of Russ Barnes, the first president, was announced at the January Board meeting. Don Clowes resigned as caretaker on March 1, 1975. Later, he was district supervisor for the County road crews, knowing well what Turkey Rock needed. Bob Dickey was hired as caretaker, working week-ends and one other day during the week. Decals were purchased for cars, giving one to each property owner, to help identify cars coming into the area. During 1974, seven new cabins were under construction and one was being expanded.

The 1975 Annual Meeting was held April 27 at the Moose Lodge in Colorado Springs. This was arranged by Director Leon Smith without charge. Dues for the coming year were set the same as the previous year -- $65 less $10 by 9/1; fishing $30. Bill Rudy and Bus Oaks were reelected. Floyd Strand was elected to the position vacated by Barrett Kirby. The officers continued the same -- Bill Rudy, Lynn Fleharty, Dale Brooks and Norma Croak.

+ Struggling On: 1975-1977

While George Stapish was hoping to start on the second phase of the lake Restoration, more trouble developed. The 1975 spring runoff began under- cutting the culvert at Turkey Creek Drive. Just at the time that the road began to dissolve into the water, a bus-load of Air Force Academy cadets was intercepted. They were planning to climb the rocks. Not only would a heavy bus have been in danger, and probably could not have got back out, but they were not supposed to come through the Turkey Rock property to climb, anyway. They were sent back to the camp ground approach. All cabin owners and visitors on the west side of the dam were notified of the possible closure of the road, and several persons left immediately. Some of us permanent residents took the car across and parked it on the east side. Even when the gap widened, and during repairs, it was possible to walk across the dam. Once more Stapish moved in his equipment to take care of the emergency -- reported as resetting the culvert. He put in an L-shaped culvert instead of the straight one that the County had used two years previously. Once more, there was a disagreement with Teller County. The road supervisor, Sam Guyton, and George Stapish attended the July 13 meeting of the Board of Directors to try to resolve the problem of payment. Finally it was agreed that Stapish could submit his bill for the work to the County, but not for the culvert, since the road is County property but the dam is Turkey Rock property.

Later that summer, George Stapish finished the lake restoration project. To put in the lower dams, roads were made across private property. In later years, it has been difficult to keep others from using these roads as access to fishing.

Stray horses were a problem. An investigation found that we had no re- course unless the area was fenced -- a continuation of the open-range law of the period of settlement of Colorado. A check of the fence surrounding Turkey Rock indicated that 140 yards of new fencing was needed and 270 yards needed major repairs. Because of the cost, no action was taken. Dogs from the ranch were also a nuisance and danger.

In March, it was reported that the spring at the east edge of Turkey Rock was not producing a normal flow. It was two years later before repairs were attempted.

A newsletter to members cautioned to be careful of the repaired and newly- seeded dams, and especially to keep vehicles off. The fish stocking had included some large trout, in hopes that they would keep the suckers under control. Algae control was also applied. Rainbow Falls indicated a willingness to give a 10% discount of fish for stocking if the annual contract was paid in advance. (A practice that has continued).

The control of mountain pine beetle had become a major concern during this year. The Colorado State Forest Service had given information and guidance but could not work directly on the problem. The responsibility is the property owners, but the newsletter of April 1976 indicated that Bob Dickey and Claude Asp would help them identify the trees that were infected. The mountain pine beetle continued to escalate for the next few years.

June 6, 1976 was the date for the annual meeting, again at the Moose Lodge. Virginia Carter, Lloyd Glasser, and Eugene Helman were elected to replace Norma Croak, Lynn Fleharty, and Leon Smith. Dues were voted to be $75 (less $10 if paid by September 1) and fishing $30. Slides of the newly restored lakes illustrated Lynn Fleharty's report, showing the beauty. Membership stood at 105 for 1975/76. Because of Eugene Helman's death, William Lees was appointed to fill this position.

The officers for 1976/77 were Bill Rudy, president; Bus Oak, vice-president; Dale Brooks, secretary; and Marion Cody, treasurer. At the July 11 Board meeting, there was discussion about filing for private lake status whereby no state fishing license would be required. The decision was to continue as at present. The flea market and the sale of the road grader enabled the Association to finally pay off Mr. Stapish. At the August 1 meeting, there was discussion about purchasing the 1935 Ford fire truck from Bust. The availability of a fire truck "should give needed firefighting assistance pending arrival of outside equipment..." The motion was passed to acquire the truck and loans were made by three individuals for the purchase. (With payment for dam restoration, the Association had no extra funds). The cost of the fire truck was $1200. It was stated: "People living full time at Turkey Rock will be trained to operate the fire truck am to take emergency action in case of fire." (Several sessions were held with the truck, but ten years later, we are still trying to get people trained.)

A plan for a garage/workshop was announced in a March 1977 newsletter, especially to house the fire truck. The letter asked for volunteers to assist and help keep the costs down. By fall the foundation was in and the garage walls completed. It was finished little-by-little over the next three years.

Claude Asp and Lloyd Glasser included a list in this newsletter of lots badly infested with mistletoe and 12 with pine beetle problems, asking owners to give attention to these trees. The pine beetle was just getting a start which continued as a problem for the next five years.

At a work week-end on June 25 and 26, the office cabin and fence were re- painted, the kitchen water pipes were rerouted and the septic tank repaired, the cabin foundation was insulated, and some other general cleanup was done with a little on the golf course.

The 1977 Annual meeting was held June 5 at the Moose Lodge in Colorado Springs, again furnished without charge.

+ Moving Along: 1977-1980

Elected to the Board for 1977/78 ware Robert Harbeke, Richard Oakes, and Doris Walker for the three-year terms, William Lees for two years. Floyd Strand resigned and Claude Asp was appointed for one year as his replacement. Officers: Bill Rudy continued as president; Bus Oaks as vice-president; Richard Oakes became secretary: and Doris Walker, treasurer. Membership dues were approved at $75 with a $10 discount prior to September 1, fishing dues remained at $30. Lloyd Glasser gave a report at the meeting on the pine beetle - mistletoe problems. Trespassing was brought up, especially with problems of climbers at the rocks. The Forest Service will be contacted to make a trail for climbing that does not cross Turkey Rock property. (I do not believe that such a trail was every marked).

When Willie Breitenfeld put in the garage foundation, he also made a cement-block extension to the north wall of the cabin for the Ben Franklin stove. The spring near the Kiddie Pond had been running slow for the past two years, so in October Claire King dug it out, used the air com- pressor on the pipe, and did more work in the spring before the water was finally potable. Before the end of the fiscal year in June, the treasury was running out, mainly due to a decrease in membership. Thoughts turned toward a fund raiser. Bob Dickey resigned to move to Dillon, and in June Art Irwin was selected as caretaker. He had been a heavy-equipment operator on the west coast, but at that time had retired to owning an apartment complex in Colorado Springs.

The 1978 Annual Meeting was held on Memorial Day (May 28) at Turkey Rock in the partially finished garage, preceded by a pot-luck lunch, starting a tradition followed for future meetings. It was decided that this holiday week-end would be a good time, as many of the property owners plan to spend the holiday at Turkey Rock anyway. “We did have that afternoon rain shower and it would have been nice had the roof been complete, but the plywood sheathing did help and the turnout was the largest since 1971." (Newsletter of June 29, 1978). The dues remained the same ($75 less $10, and $30). Elected to the Board were Claude Asp, Bob Cataldi, and George Fort. Over 60 people gathered. Bill Rudy and Bus Oaks did not run for reelection. Both had given exceptional service since the beginning of the organization in 1971, and Bus had even helped with pre-organizational details. Officers elected for the year were George Fort, President; Richard Oakes, vice-president; Claude Asp, secretary, and Doris Walker, treasurer. By-laws amendment gave the Board of Directors the privilege of designating one month a year as Amnesty Month. During this time any non-member proper- ty owner could become a member without paying the arrears penalty -- only the dues for the current year. November was designated as the first such.

Activities during the following year were varied. A work week-end did additional work on the garage on July 15 and 16, as well as other needed tasks. A spaghetti supper and white-elephant sale was set as a fund raiser on November 18. Director Cataldi resigned, finding a conflict between the meeting dates and his work as a realtor. His position was not filled until the annual meeting. Art Irwin's resignation was accepted effective April 30, 1979.

The 1979 Annual Meeting was again held at Turkey Rock, this time with the building enclosed, but only a dirt floor. For three-year terms, Bill Rudy was again persuaded to run and was elected with the others Mary Eddy and Arch Gibson. The two-year vacancy of Cataldi's was filled by Hugh Pitzer, Jr. Membership dues was the same as the previous year ($75 less $10. $30). Additional money for fishing was discussed but voted down. Items of discussion were boundary stakes and surveys, diseased trees, suspected unauthorized wood cutting, golf course upkeep and desired tennis courts. A recreation committee was appointed to explore added facilities. By this time there were 51 cabins and homes and 11 full-time residents. Officers elected at the June 10 Board meeting included Bill Rudy as president again, Mary Eddy as vice-president’ Claude Asp, secretary, and Doris Walker, treasurer.

The 1979/80 year started off with the announcement that the month of August offered amnesty for arrears penalty on memberships of non-member- property owners or those whose dues had lapsed. Five new memberships were received as a result. Packets for new property owners were initiated. The County's work during the summer in getting the roads in very good condition was acknowledged, then in August nearly four inches of rain fell in less than a week, eroding some of them again. Work was done on the cabin fence, and the septic system and field were rehabilitated. Work continued on the garage, with many hours of volunteer work. The outside was painted (with paint donated by Bob Harbeke and KWAL). Cabin re- novation was undertaken under the chairmanship of Mary Eddy, with work on plumbing, ceilings, walls, floor coverings, stove, cabinets, the shower and doors. The new carpet and donated living-room furniture presented an attractive home for a future caretaker. Work was done on the dams in May of 1980.

Other problems addressed by the Board included the vicious dogs of the tenant at the James' cabin. A lawyer sent a letter, advising them that they were in violation of the covenants, threatening additional legal action. The owner evicted the tenants. Letters also were written to owners leaving trailers on their lots in violation of covenants. A letter from a property owner whose downed trees were stolen was answered, but little could be done, other than asking the caretaker to be attentive to the problem. One cabin was entered and door left open, but nothing seemed to have been taken.

Kurt Pitzer, son of property-owner and 1979/80 Board member Hugh Pitzer, was caretaker for four or five months until outside employment made it difficult for him or his wife to perform the caretaker duties. Bob Dickey then filled in on a temporary basis.

One of the newsletters indicated that members enjoyed a number of social events, held as fund raisers. Also that “interest is booming in Turkey Rock Ranch Estates property. Several sales of empty lots have taken place this summer,” and construction of several cabins was being planned.

The Annual Meeting on May 25, 1980 was also set up as a fund raiser. selling the luncheon, preceding the meeting, and holding some drawings. Bus Oaks was honored by a plaque and sign: "Bus II Oaks Fire-House". The membership count for the year stood at 101. 37 voting members were pre sent, and 10 proxy votes had been submitted (46½ of the membership rep- resented). The general dues were again voted at $75 with a $10 discount, and $35 for fishing because of the added cost of fish stocking. Terms had expired for Richard Oakes and Doris Walker, who left the Board, with Bob Harbeke reelected. Also elected were Lisa Dillon and Dale Brooks.

+ 10th Anniversary: 1980-81

The officers for 1980/81 were Bill Rudy again as president, Mary Eddy remaining as vice-president, Lisa Dillon for secretary, and Bob Harbeke, treasurer. Hugh Pitzer had not attended Board meetings for several months but had not submitted a resignation in time for the annual meeting. On obtaining his resignation, M. M. Wilson was appointed to serve for the year. The perennial problem of getting new fishing badges before the Fourth of July holiday and of policing this policy, erupted this year, when two young men threatened the caretaker with violence when told they could not fish.

The continuing problem of money also plagued this board. Somehow, the Association has always come through the lean years - which have been most of them. (Some other Developments have not been as fortunate, with the disbanding of homeowner associations). Membership was down this year -- ending with 94, seven less than the previous year, and more than that for some years. The contractor who had worked on the dams in May had to wait for part of his money until the dues for the new year came in. Arch Gibson was made chairman of a fund-raising committee and started off with a spaghetti supper and bingo party in September, attended by forty people. The following month there was a delightful Sunday brunch, and in the spring, a chili supper. Volunteers installed the cement floor in the garage, even mixing their own cement, to save money. Croaston and Sabin spent many hours repairing the firetruck.

Nature also causes problems. An overpopulation of muskrats was removed from the lakes, and beaver live-trapped and moved. Fire just north of Turkey Rock frightened everyone, but the Forest Service had it under control rapidly and kept Turkey Rockers informed. A tree had come down across the power line to set off the fire.

The Board wrestled with the revision of the Rules and regulations. They hired a caretaker, after revising the duties. Bob and Carole Morgan were hired, effective October 1. Access to lot 54 across the Jakcsy Lake Dam was studied and finalized. The owner of lots 55 to 58, did not sign this new document, as he indicated that he had been given such access by the Developers when he first purchased the lots.

The eleventh annual meeting was held May 24, 1981, at the "Bus" Oaks Firehouse in Turkey Rock. Dues were increased to $95, with discount of $10. if paid by September 1. Fishing dues were increased to $40. New Board members elected were Dan Carter, Ed Croaston, and Leo Sabin, re- placing outgoing directors Claude Asp, George Fort. and M. M. Wilson. An amendment to the By-laws was passed whereby a Director may be removed from the Board of Directors should he miss three consecutive regularly scheduled meetings without good cause. With the review of the year, the deaths of long-time members were announced -- Vincent Winn, Bus Oaks, Bill Peyser, and Ralph Cesario.

+ Transition Years: 1981-82

After ten years, Bill Rudy decline to run for office, though still on the Board for one more year. Dan Carter was elected president. Dale Brooks, a long-lime officer, was elected vice-president. Arch Gibson was elected secretary, and Mary Eddy, treasurer. From the Review of the Year --''Dan Carter was elected last June as the Board’s president. For eight months he did an outstanding job. For personal reasons of health, he resigned as president in February. At that time, Bill Rudy consented to serve out the balance of the elective year and has done so." The services of a caretaker was terminated in July. Residents on the Board tried to keep a check on fishing and on the area and unknown persons. Ed Croaston did the snow plowing, and he, Leo Sabin, George Eddy, and Dan Carter worked on the equipment. A new tank (larger) was put on the fire truck and extra hose, ladders, and, other equipment were obtained. The fire station, after pouring the floor just before the meeting, was then insulated and sheet rocked, heater installed, so that it was warm for the annual meeting in 1982 in spite of cold and stormy weather. Talks with County Commissioners indicated that chances of improved road maintenance are discouraging; they also need a local source of gravel. The culvert under the road from the Kiddie Pond needs changes. New signs were posted at the lakes.

An ID number was obtained from the IRS. An emergency fund was established and held in a CD for a time, hoping to have money ahead next time dams needed repair, or other emergencies arose. George Eddy worked on a committee for county fire district organization. He had reported that he felt that Turkey Rock could not form a fire district because of lack of manpower at Turkey Rock.

The Annual meeting was held May 30, 1982, at the Bus Oaks Fire house at Turkey Rock, with an estimated 120 persons present. Two budgets were presented by the Board -- one without a caretaker at approximately the same expenditure level, the other with a caretaker at considerable added cost. The one without the caretaker passed, with dues remaining at $95, with a $10 discount, and $40 additional for fishing. New Board members elected were Larry McDowell, Connie Barnes, and Tony Schneider, replacing Bill Rudy, Mary Eddy, and Arch Gibson -- all of whom declined to run for reelection. Bill Rudy had been on the Board since 1971, except for one year, and had been instrumental in keeping the organization alive. A by-laws change passed whereby persons who flagrantly violate the Rules and regulations can be denied membership. The Rules were also changed allowing five badges per member, instead of issuing them according to the number of persons in the family.

The 1982-83 officers were Dale Brooks, president; Dan Carter, vice-president; Connie Barnes, secretary; and Tony Schneider, treasurer. However, Tony Schneider resigned as treasurer in December. Robert Harbeke also resigned from the Board, having sold his property. Norman “Chip” Bissell was appointed to fill out the term of Harbeke and to take over the treasurer's duties, as of December 12. Connie Barnes became ill and was able to perform the secretarial duties only until March. A letter was sent out soliciting dues from non-members, declaring an amnesty on arrears.

The garage/ fire station doors were insulated and windows covered with plastic in order that heat could be maintained through the winter, having the fire truck available at all times. On September 4, a "Grand Opening of Fire House" was declared, together with a work day, with the Association furnishing hamburgers and soft drinks, others bringing salads or dessert. Additional tables and chairs were purchased, so at last everyone (or nearly everyone) could sit down, and extra picnic tables and chairs did not have to be rounded up for a meeting. A new blade for the snow plow was purchased. A larger tractor became available from the Ben Bullock estate (renter at the Edgar ranch) in exchange for cleaning and hauling away quantities of accumulated trash.

The cabin was rented to Mr. and Mrs. Dan Miller (Elsie Hoffman's brother), from September 1982. In order to separate the propane usage of the house and the garage, a second propane tank was installed for the garage. In April, the Board agreed to pay off the mortgage on the cabin, amounting to $2896.71.

The treasurer transferred money into a Super Now account at Park State Bank, to draw interest and to be more conveniently located. One of the Board members agreed to contact Midland Realty to inform them of our Association and that building plans should be reviewed by the Association. A contract with the Forest Service regarding use of our fire equipment was signed in March. Payment would also be made for manpower. A fairly substantial balance of funds was carried over this year -- partly because of income from the cabin and no payments for a caretaker. Suggestions for additional recreational activities were made.

The Annual Meeting was again held on Memorial Day, May 29, 1983, pre- ceded by the sumptuous pot-luck luncheon. Dues were reduced to $70, with $10 discount by September 1; fishing $40. Those elected to the Board were Norman Bissell, Kaye Fort, and Roberta Winn; with Dale Brooks and Lisa Dillon leaving the Board.

+ Carrying On: 1983-85

With none of the "old-timers" on the Board, Larry McDowell was persuaded to take the presidency, with Dan Carter as vice-president, Kaye Fort, secretary, and Roberta Winn, treasurer. Connie Barnes remained on the Board, although too ill to attend, and the resignation she sent never having reached the officers. She died in late summer but was not re- placed on the Board. Kaye Fort resigned from the Board about the first of the year. Ed Croaston did snow plowing with some assistance from Leo Sabin. Jerry Parent (renter at Mertz house) contracted and painted the cabin, fire house, and fence. Storm windows were purchased for the cabin, which continued to be rented by Mr. Miller until he became too ill the end of November. Regulations were then established for the rental of the cabin, including no pets and no children. It was also to be made available by the day to property owners or friends. A separate electrical circuit was established for the garage so that renters would pay the electricity for the cabin only.

The Board made an offer for a firetruck that the town of Sheridan was selling and purchased it for just under $6200. In addition, a CB and a draft pump were purchased. This truck was a 1972 Chevy, in good condition, with low mileage, and with hose and other equipment. The old truck was then sold a few months later as an antique. A review of fire, liability, and auto insurance policies had been started before the purchase of the new truck. Our previous vender could not obtain good rates for the fire truck, so a better package was obtained from Primac Insurance Company in Colorado Springs. This increased the amount of coverage on the Buildings, as well. It was determined that the Fire house could be used by individual members at a time when fire equipment could be left outside, with approval of Board members.

The Annual meeting was again held on Memorial Day, May 27, 1984, at Tur- key Rock. Don Anderson, Edith Lees, and Ken Neiswander were elected to the Board for three-year terms; Felix Cordova and W. R. (Bob) Menzel for two, and John Phelan and Santa Pero for one year. Carryovers were only Larry McDowell and Roberta Winn. Dues were set at $60 (with a $10 penalty if not paid by July 31) and fishing at $40. It was decided to hire Leo Sabin for a small monthly fee to look after the equipment and then to plow driveways on a percentage basis. It was hoped that the fees collected on work for members would pay for the costs. (During the year. the fees did pay the costs except for some tractor repairs).

The 1984/85 officers were Larry McDowell, president; Don Anderson, vice president; John Phelan, secretary, and Roberta Winn, treasurer.

Since there had been poor turnout for work days, the Board decided to hire some work done that previously had been done by volunteer labor, such as the cabin painting the previous summer. The cabin renter redid the plumbing under the house in exchange for a month's rent, then insulation was put in, hoping to prevent further freezing of the water line. (By 1986, the ground squirrels had torn out soma of the insulation for nests). During the year, two different couples rented the cabin for a few months each, and some short-term renters were also accommodated. During the year, the hot water heater was replaced, the propane stove was taken out and an electric range purchased, with extra wiring done for the 220 circuit. When the refrigerator refused to work, it was moved to the garage for storage and the old one there moved into the cabin.

There are always property management problems. Since the water from the spring was not running freely and obviously not potable, the hose was re- moved. Persons needing water were instructed to get it from the outside faucet at the cabin, at least in small quantities. Theft of wood and a chain saw were reported from the southeast section of Turkey Rock as well as Lost Valley.

The dams needed work -- reinforcing, rock where the channel was eating into the bank, clearing out gravel, and other maintenance chores. We did not get ahold of a contractor to do the work, so it was held over to the next year.

New garage doors were considered, since the firetruck only barely went in. An estimate proved too costly, so thoughts turned toward an extension (see 1986).

Communications had always been a problem at Turkey Rock, especially for the permanent, residences. Several times when someone needed to be taken to the hospital, the telephone at Munn’s and Carter’s was out. Dan had done a heroic job on maintenance on this section of the Manitou Park Telephone, with help from Bob Morgan and others, but the poles were old and small and they were broken often -- from storm, heavy equipment, or vandalism, or even unknown causes, or the lines got twisted from the wind. Two or three years prior to this, work had been started to get Mountain Bell to furnish service, first with George Eddy making contacts. then with Fern Croaston continuing and ramrodding the actual installation. With a number of contracts signed to cover the expected costs, to be paid by permanent residents at Turkey Rock, Lost Valley, Wildhorn, and Lutheran Valley Ranch, Mountain Bell finally installed telephones in time for Christmas, 1984 -- a great Christmas present indeed. The lines came underground from Divide, giving us a Woodland Park number, and so not long-distance to Colorado Springs, coming through Manchester Creek to Lost Valley and to the south edge of Turkey Rock. It included carriers making it possible for one pair of lines to handle 24 phones. Within Turkey Rock the lines were attached to the REA utility poles. Previous to this, Intermountain Rural Electric Association (IREA), had worked since early spring to upgrade our electric service with new poles and heavier lines all the way from Westcreek.

Two of our representatives attended meetings of Teller County Emergency Preparedness Committee (Ed Croaston and Leo Sabin). This developed contacts with the County officials and persons from other areas of the county. We prepared information for the committee on the emergency equipment and assistance at Turkey Rock. Because of this contact, the sheriff's department issued Turkey Rock a radio for the fire truck and we purchased an antenna for use on the truck. Later it was found that transmission was still not good, with messages going out but replies not being received.

In 1986, the County gave us a tall antenna for the fire house, to make that a communications center, and the CB was moved from the cabin. With the installation of a telephone at the cabin, an extension was run to the fire station. At last we had an alternative emergency system of communications.

In November of 1984, the firetruck got its first real test. A fire at the old ranch cabin in Lost Valley Ranch (just south of Turkey Rock) was in full flame by the time help could be summoned. Our truck kept it from spreading and doing more damage.

Dan Carter and Claude Asp offered to build foot bridges across the dam outlets, using the old telephone poles from the discontinued section of Manitou Park Telephone Company. Other needed materials were purchased and work was done during the summer and in to the following year.

An interesting side-light of the year was the availability in the book- stores of "THE HARD STUFF! A CLIMBER'S GUIDE TO THE TURKEY ROCK AREA AND OTHER SOUTH PLATTE CRAGS" by Mark Rolofson of Colorado Springs. It gives details on the climbing of the various rocks. Most interesting to many of us was the names. The west rock is Turkey Rock; to the southwest of it is "Leftovers", and east turkey rock is named "Turkey Tail" with "Tur- key Perch" between; and at the extreme east, "Rightovers". Turkey Tail has such interesting names of climbs as "Piece of cake", "Turkey turd", "Beauty and the Beast", "Sidewinder", and "Cheap Trick". All are rated at a difficulty of 5.8 to 5.12 on a scale of 1 to 10. The author does indicate not to go by way of the front entrance, which is private land, and shows the back way, but also does show a "walk in" by way of the campground without indicating that it also is private land.

The year ended with 107 members, 69 of which were also fishing members -- a high point in membership.

The Annual Meeting was held Sunday, May 26, 1985. As customary, a pot- luck lunch preceded, enjoyed by all. The newly elected members of the Board are Ed Croaston, Glen Hart, and Carol Frawer. These replaced the outgoing president, Larry McDowell; the former secretary, John Phelan, and Mrs. Santa Pero. Thelma Munn offered to be chairman of a committee to rehabilitate the golf course. The dues were voted to remain the same as the previous year -- $60 (plus $10 if not paid by July 31) and $40. The cost of fish and the delivery charges increases almost every year. We also decided to add a few large, trophy fish with each stocking, to add enthusiasm.

The problem of the spruce bud-worm was brought up at the meeting and property owners felt that spraying was necessary. As it must be done in mid-June, just as the buds are opening and the worms hatching, this brought about a quick check on services and fast contact with property- owners. Colorado Forestry Consultants and Ptarmigan Helicopters did the aerial spraying on about 155 acres of Turkey Rock property very early in the morning on June 12. We did get much better new growth than we had had on the Douglas fir tr16 last few years, and not nearly as many moths flying around the trees later in the summer. (Of course. there were some that managed to survive).

+ The 15-Year Mark: 1985-86

The officers elected were W. R. Menzel, Jr. (Bob) as president, Glen Hart, vice-president, Edith Lees, secretary, and Roberta Winn continued as treasurer. Meetings progressed in much the same way trying to deal with the present problems. The aggravation of trying to fit the firetruck into its space made the idea of garage expansion seem very enticing. Various plans were discussed, and the Board finally decided to get Richard Oakes, a resident, to act as contractor for a twelve-foot extension.

Another problem plagued the Board. From the time that I (Roberta Winn) had been elected treasurer. I had tried to determine our status with the IRS. Being a non-profit corporation in the state is not the same as being tax-exempt with the federal government, I found; and being a corporation, we needed to file a corporation income tax report whether we made any money or not. As a consequence, some of the money that we had wanted to use for the garage went instead to the IRS.

George Stapish finally came in and did some repair work on the dams and filled an area where the channel was cutting into the bordering property.

The golf course will shortly be ready with new tee boxes and flags, ready for use -- not a championship course, just one on which to have fun.

A tax-supported district for fire protection was formed to cover the Woodland Park and surrounding area but excluded Turkey Rock. Previously we had considered that we were a part of the Woodland Park firemen's area. We investigated petitioning to join the district, but it seemed that we would need still to be able to handle the first emergency ourselves. Therefore, in November, the residents formed the Turkey Rock Volunteer Fire Department as an independent organization, with the Turkey Rock Rec. Association still providing much of their financial support. Organizational details were worked out. Woodland Park Fire Department encouraged our people to train with them. Our secretary, Dan Carter, and Fire Chief Leo Sabin, or other officers, meet regularly with the County group TRRA p. 22 of fire chiefs and County officials to coordinate activities. Lost Valley, Wildhorn, and Westcreek also have volunteers that are a part of the Turkey Rock Volunteer Fire Department. With the coordinated efforts of all, we hope that any future fire emergency can be handled efficiently.

The Annual meeting on May 25. 1986, took a few minutes to look back to the beginnings, to see where we came from, and how we have survived, in spite of financial problems, fewer members than expected, flood, threats of fire, and insect pests, and sometimes difficult roads.

Lots continue to be sold, and now and then a cabin. Turkey Rock still keeps its beauty and attractiveness and its appeal for week-enders and permanent residents alike. New cabins are being built each year.

+ Hayman Fire: 2002

From Wikipedia:

As you are driving on Highway 67 to Turkey Rock Ranch Estates, you immediately notice a vast number of dead trees. The destruction was caused by what is known by us locals as “The Hayman Fire.” The fire burned from June 8, 2002 until it was classified as contained in July 18, 2002. The cause of the fire was found to be arson. It is by far the largest wildfire in Colorado history in terms of acreage burned. However, it didn’t destroy nearly as many homes as some other Colorado fires. The Hayman Fire torched 138,000 acres northwest of Colorado Springs and a total of 600 structures were destroyed (133 residences, 1 commercial building, and 466 outbuildings), causing more than $42 million in housing losses. A total of 5,340 people were forced to evacuate; at one time, 14,000 were told to stand by for evacuation.

One of the common questions about the Hayman Fire is “What started the fire?” Believe it or not, a forestry technician with the U.S. Forest Service, Terry Barton, set fire in a campfire ring during a total burn ban triggered by a National Weather Service red flag warning. Barton’s claim that she was attempting to burn a letter from her estranged husband; however, many locals believe she set the fire on purpose so she could stay home and fight a local Colorado fire instead of being called to fight fires in other states, such as Arizona and California. This would enable her to be with her kids that summer. According to radio talk show host Glenn Sacks, investigators also speculated that Barton started the fire so she could be a hero for putting it out and saving the forest.

The fire quickly spread out of the campfire ring and eventually torched over 138,000 acres and burned across four different counties. A federal grand jury indicted Barton on four felony counts of arson. Barton was given a six-year sentence in federal prison. Additionally, the State of Colorado sentenced Barton to 12 years in prison to run concurrently with the 6-year federal sentence. In 2008, Barton was re-sentenced to 15 years of probation and 1,000 hours community service. In August 2018, Barton’s probation was extended for another 15 years in the form of unsupervised probation and she was ordered to continue making payments toward the $14.5 million in restitution she owed as of the 2018 re-sentencing.

As a result of the Hayman fire, flooding in the burn area increased. Many roads and bridges in the area were washed out. This included State Highway 67, the main highway that runs through the area. The increased flow of water caused flooding in the Turkey Rock Ranch subdivision and many of the lakes were destroyed and dams were breached by the flood waters.