Coloradans are some of the smartest and most innovative people on earth! From inventing and popularizing fast casual food (a la Chipotle, Q’doba, and Noodles & Co.) to the dreaded wheel clamp, to tampons and juvenile detention centers, Coloradans have thought of it all! If there is one Colorado invention, however, that stands out as the most important and iconic, it would have to be this snuggly childhood staple that not many people realize was invented here:
Located in gorgeous Glenwood Springs is that of Colorado’s oldest hotel, the iconic Hotel Colorado, which boasts both world-class accommodations and a rich history.
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Built in 1891 (and opened in 1893), the Hotel Colorado has served a number of distinguished guests over the years, including Presidents William Howard Taft and Theodore Roosevelt.
Flickr/Melanie Wynne
While hosting any president is a big deal, President Roosevelt’s visit proved to be even more historic, as legend has it that his stay at the Hotel Colorado turned out one of the most nostalgic of childhood friends…
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…which is that of the cuddly teddy bear.
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While there are many legends/theories/rumors surrounding the invention of the teddy bear, Coloradans know the real story, which is that during his Glenwood Springs stay, President Roosevelt was presented with the first ever bear, created by hotel maids who pieced together scrap material as a gift for the Rough Rider.
Flickr/Mark Hoad
(Do you see now why this stuffed animal was coined the “Teddy” bear?)
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For even more of the best inventions to come from the Centennial State, click on 12 Surprising Things You Didn’t Know Came From Colorado.
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Flickr/Melanie Wynne
Flickr/Mark Hoad
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