Colorado State Capitol Virtual Tour

Irving Hale Plaque

This plaque on the south entrance of the capitol celebrates and memorializes the work and life of one of Colorado's most distinguished military leaders, Colonel Irving Hale. The plaque also honors Hale for his efforts to install Denver's first successful trolley car system in 1889. As the plaque mentions, the astute Hale graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1884 with one of the highest academic records ever attained there. Hale's great educational achievements are not surprising, however, since his father Horace Hale is considered to be the father of Colorado's system of education. Colonel Hale led the Colorado forces during the Spanish-American War to victory at major battles at Manila and Fort San Antonio. In fact, the first American flag to be flown over the defenses at Manila was flown by Colonel Hale's troops. For his courage and leadership President McKinley promoted Hale to the position of Brigadier General.

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last modified June 20, 2003