A Storied History

The Manor House has become one of Colorado's finest examples of an American Georgian - Southern Style mansion. It was built in 1914 by John Shaffer for the sum of $100,000. Shaffer named the Ranch after his two sons, Kent and Carroll.

The historic house was opened as a restaurant in December, 1990. The utmost of care has been taken to preserve the original architectural intent inherent in this fine structure. The 8,000 square foot Manor House was originally surrounded by his Ken Caryl Cattle Ranch which covered 28,000 acres.

Shaffer was responsible for bringing Hereford cattle to Colorado. He was editor-publisher of the Chicago Tribune and then owner of the Chicago Post and Rocky Mountain News. He was a patron of the arts and spearheaded the funds necessary to build Chicago's Opera House. Mr. Shaffer would engage opera companies to perform at the Denver Auditorium and would house the cast at the Manor House and Ranch. There were 16 cottages on his acreage and the Manor House itself had 6 bedrooms and 4 baths.

The Manor House entertained frequent guests such as Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, as well as industrial chieftains from around the world.

The 105 foot flagpole behind the Manor House has a light at the top that was originally battery operated. The light could be seen from Denver through the saddle of the Dakota Hogback and this was an invitation to Shaffer's friends to "come on out."

We will continue this tradition of lighting the light to receive you, our guests, with a most warming welcome!

The light is on!