John Otto, a name synonymous with the establishment of the Colorado National Monument, was not only a trail builder and nature enthusiast but also a man of unique principles, especially when it came to marriage. His wedding to Beatrice Farnham at the base of the iconic Independence Monument is a testament to his unconventional spirit and provides a fascinating glimpse into his personal life alongside his public endeavors.
The story of John Otto and Beatrice Farnham’s engagement is as intriguing as Otto himself. While the details of their first meeting remain somewhat unclear, Otto’s enthusiastic letters to local newspapers vividly portray his excitement about Beatrice’s arrival. He referred to Beatrice, an artist and “trail girl of the Southwest,” as “my partner,” emphasizing their shared dedication to the work in the monument. His engagement announcement highlighted not only a personal union but also a continued commitment to his conservation work, stating, “now as there are two, we assure the Sentinel, that work will be continued on the same basis.” This announcement subtly blends his personal happiness with his unwavering dedication to the natural landscape he so passionately championed.
As a unique engagement gift, Otto presented Beatrice with a burro named Foxy. Beatrice, a practical and artistic woman, appreciated the gesture, remarking that while she couldn’t wear a burro, Foxy would be invaluable for “carrying my paint boxes and other paraphernalia of the trail.” This gift reflects both Otto’s outdoorsy lifestyle and Beatrice’s artistic profession. Beatrice Farnham was an accomplished artist and interior decorator, holding a contract to renovate rooms at the LaCourt Hotel in Grand Junction, a prominent social hub of its time. Her artistic sensibility and independent career added another layer to her persona and relationship with Otto.
The wedding ceremony itself, held on June 20th, perfectly encapsulated their shared values and rejection of conventional norms. Choosing the base of Independence Monument as their wedding venue was a deliberate statement. Beatrice articulated their reasoning, stating, “We are not trying to make its (sic) picturesque, but simply to coincide with our own principles which prefer the open canon to the stained glass churches as the scene for our ceremony.” This choice underscored their preference for nature’s grandeur over traditional religious settings, aligning with Otto’s reverence for the natural world he sought to protect.
John Otto’s perspective on marriage further reveals his independent thinking. He openly expressed his skepticism about the “modern form of marriage,” deeming it not “formed on common sense.” He clarified his decision to marry was out of respect for the law, “because I believe in obeying the law of the land, no matter what it is,” rather than a wholehearted endorsement of the institution. Otto’s pragmatic view extended to the traditional vows. He questioned the practicality of “honor and obey,” particularly the expectation of female obedience, stating, “I never heard of a woman obeying- her husband, anyway- and what is the use of making them lie every time they stand up before a minister.” Instead of the customary “obey,” they opted for vows to “love, honor, and cherish,” reflecting a more egalitarian and realistic approach to their commitment.
The wedding celebration was a modest yet meaningful affair. Before the ceremony, the couple and their guests shared a wedding meal featuring tomato soup, roasted chicken, salads, breads, boiled tongue, coffee, and lemonade – a hearty and somewhat unconventional menu. The ceremony took place within a circle of roped evergreens and sunflowers, with directional points marked by the words “truth, honor, love, and justice.” This symbolic arrangement further emphasized their values and created a unique, nature-integrated wedding setting.
In conclusion, John Otto and Beatrice Farnham’s wedding at Independence Monument was far more than just a ceremony; it was a reflection of their individual personalities and shared values. It showcased John Otto’s deep connection to nature, his principled stance, and his unconventional approach to life, making their union a memorable chapter in the history of the Colorado National Monument and a testament to a truly unique love story.
