Clara Brown, the Denver pioneer after whom our newest affordable housing project will be named, was born about 220 years ago. “About,” because due to her circumstances in slavery, she didn’t know her birthday. We do know the date of her death—October 23, 1885.

Sadly, due to new pandemic restrictions last weekend in Denver, we needed to cancel our first annual Clara Brown Day celebration. We’re planning a festive neighborhood event to honor her on the Saturday morning nearest October 23 each year. Our staff did roll up our sleeves (or rather donned coats and gloves after an ice storm) for a project at the property: all along the construction fence, we unfurled and installed large new banners that tell of Aunt Clara’s life and legacy.

“It’s fun to see a block-long dirt patch transformed into a little walkable history museum,” said MHM Director Jeff Johnsen, his pockets full of zip ties for banner hanging. Now when you get a chance, you can walk the perimeter while being inspired by her life events and quotes reflecting her spirit. Interactive stations, designed by an architecture student, allow visitors to reflect on the experience and express thoughts with others. We hope you’ll bring the kids—and let us know so we can join you!

We also got to take a preview tour of the Tiny Homes Women’s Village at Clara Brown Commons, in the last stages of construction before residents move in. We were wowed by the build quality—high end windows and doors, and efficient design of the shared kitchen and laundry hub. We’re SO excited for the community of residents that will flourish here beginning in just a few weeks.

Clara Brown passed from this life 135 years ago at a friend’s home in Denver, where she was staying after giving her fortune away. Her blessings to our city live on.

*Thanks to our partners at Colorado Village Collaborative for the photo of our Tiny Homes tour.