For anyone captivated by the majestic beauty of Colorado’s fourteeners, whether through calendars or coffee table books, the breathtaking color photographs were very likely the work of John Fielder. His lens captured the soul of Colorado’s landscapes for decades, leaving an indelible mark on how the world perceives the Centennial State.
Fielder’s productivity was nothing short of remarkable. Over his career as a dedicated nature photographer, beginning in 1981, he authored more than 40 books showcasing the diverse and stunning landscapes of Colorado. His passion and dedication promised many more volumes, but pancreatic cancer tragically ended his prolific journey on August 11th, at the age of 73.
Among his extensive bibliography, one book stood out as a monumental achievement, resonating with a broad audience fascinated by the transformation of Colorado over 130 years. “Colorado, 1870-2000,” a large format book with a distinctive brown cover, ingeniously paired 156 historical photographs by the pioneering William Henry Jackson with Fielder’s meticulously re-photographed contemporary scenes. This comparative study offered a unique perspective on the passage of time and its impact on the Colorado landscape.
The genesis of this landmark book, as Fielder himself acknowledged in the introduction, can be traced back to a conversation with Eric Paddock, the photo curator at the Colorado Historical Society. Seeking inspiration for his next project slated for 2000, Fielder contacted Paddock regarding Jackson’s iconic image of the Mount of the Holy Cross, famously distinguished by its snow-filled cross formation. Paddock’s revelation that he possessed not only that negative but also 22,000 others from Jackson’s vast collection sparked an idea in Fielder. He realized the potential to vividly portray over a century of historical change by visually juxtaposing Jackson’s historical captures with modern-day photographs from the same vantage points, revealing how the landscapes had evolved or, in many cases, remained remarkably unchanged.
For months, Fielder immersed himself in the archives, meticulously examining negatives at the Colorado Historical Society and other libraries. He carefully selected images that he deemed both compelling and reproducible for his ambitious project. With the assistance of Eric Bellamy, an art student, Fielder embarked on an arduous journey, traversing over 25,000 miles by car and hiking 500 miles on foot. Carrying 70 pounds of photographic equipment in his backpack, he tirelessly sought out the precise locations from which Jackson had captured his original photographs.
The pursuit of these re-photographic matches was often challenging. In one instance, capturing Jackson’s view of Mount of the Holy Cross necessitated two separate ascents of Notch Mountain, reaching an elevation of 13,248 feet. Other locations required more urban approaches – photographing from the rooftops of office buildings or even requesting permission from homeowners to access their roofs. Fielder explained that he relied on identifying at least two distinct landmarks to ensure he was photographing from the identical spot as Jackson, guaranteeing the accuracy and integrity of the comparison.
However, John Fielder envisioned “Colorado 1870-2000” as more than just a collection of paired photographs. He aimed to provide a richer, multi-faceted understanding of Colorado’s history and environmental context. To achieve this, he enlisted the expertise of several writers to contribute essays that would complement the visual narrative.
He invited Eric Paddock to delve into the life and times of William Henry Jackson, providing readers with context on the pioneering photographer and his era. Environmental historian Roderick Nash was asked to contribute his insights on civilization’s evolving impact on the natural world, offering a broader perspective on the changes depicted in the photographs. Journalist Ed Marston added a personal touch with a memoir chapter recounting his family’s move to Colorado from New York in the 1970s.
Marston’s chapter, titled “A slow motion invasion of the rural West,” humorously described the influx of environmentalists, like himself, who were drawn to Colorado’s then-untouched landscapes. He recounted how old mining towns, such as Crested Butte with its unpaved streets, became havens for ski enthusiasts and young people seeking an escape. These newcomers, while drawn to the pristine environment, often brought with them a desire to implement changes and protections.
Marston also explored significant shifts in Colorado’s economic and environmental landscape, including the boom and subsequent bust of oil shale development, and the evolving roles of federal agencies like the Forest Service and BLM. He noted their gradual shift from prioritizing resource extraction – mining, logging, and grazing – to a growing, albeit reluctant, recognition of the need for land restoration and conservation in the West.
Marston fondly recalled working with John Fielder, whom he described as a fellow “workaholic.” To his surprise, the phenomenal commercial success of “Colorado 1870-2000” resulted in unexpected financial gains for him. The book’s launch event in Denver was a celebratory occasion for Fielder and his collaborators. They were greeted by long lines of eager buyers, snaking around the block, all wanting signed copies of the book.
The triumph of “Colorado 1870-2000” was a testament to John Fielder’s vision, unwavering dedication, and relentless stamina. He conceived and executed a remarkable book that continues to grace coffee tables and waiting rooms, offering a visual journey through Colorado’s rich history and evolving landscape.
John Fielder articulated that his life’s work was driven by a desire to not only celebrate the inherent beauty of the natural environment but also to inspire individuals to become active advocates for land conservation. His legacy extends beyond his published works. Through his generous donation of 7,263 of his images to History Colorado, a significant portion of his photographic archive will be preserved for future generations, ensuring that his vision and passion for Colorado’s landscapes will continue to inspire and educate for years to come.
