Downton Abbey Comes Alive

Are you a big fan of Downton Abbey like me?

You wouldn't think the small steel town of Pueblo, Colorado 

would be the home of a magnificent mansion reminiscent of the PBS series. 

But after driving about two hours south of Denver, 

we toured this gorgeous home called Rosemount

and many of the features like the pantry, third-floor rooms, and grand entry

reminded me of my favorite show. 

The lady of the house loved roses and the house perched atop a hill, thus the name. 

Referred to as Colorado's Crown Jewel, the house is fitted with a communication system 

similar to the one on Downton Abbey. 

But instead of bells ringing in the servant's quarters to different rooms in the house, 

Rosemount used a system of speaking into a tube from various rooms. 

Built in 1891 by successful merchant and banker John Thatcher, 

its 24,000 square feet was constructed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style. 

It cost approximately $100,000 to build, an enormous sum in those days 

when many homes were adobe and the streets were not paved.

I especially loved all the intricate woodwork, the hand-painted ceilings, 

and the huge stained-glass windows shipped from New York.

Unfortunately we were not allowed to take photos inside the house. 

Nearly all of the fascinating furnishings are original to the house. 

Thankfully, the family didn't throw anything away. 

Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area. 

Psst. In case you haven't heard, a Downton Abbey movie is set 

to be released this September with the original cast. Can't wait!

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