~ Colorado Springs, CO- The love story of General William Jackson Palmer and his young bride, Mary Lincoln Mellen Palmer, has become a beloved tale in the history of this city. Known affectionately as "Queen," Mary and William's love story began on a train traveling between Cincinnati and St. Louis.

Despite the distance between them, the couple remained in close contact through letters and telegrams. While many of Queen's letters to William have been lost over time, several of his letters to her still exist, giving us a glimpse into their shared dreams.

In his letters, William often spoke of his plans for the railroad and the community they would build together at the foot of Pikes Peak. He valued Queen's thoughts and opinions, making them equal partners in both love and vision.

When Queen arrived in Colorado Springs, she immediately fell in love with the canyon where they built their residence. She was known for her enthusiasm as she showed visitors around their home and shared her love for the land with them.

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Despite William's frequent absence on railroad survey expeditions, Queen entertained guests on her own and formed a special bond with the children of the new colony. At just twenty-one years old, she founded the first school in Colorado Springs, recognizing the importance of education.

Queen also left her mark on the landscape itself by naming many rock formations on their property at Glen Eyrie. She also named streets after streams and rivers crossed by their railroad, showcasing her deep connection to both William and their new home.

Sadly, Queen's health began to decline due to a weak heart. The high altitude eventually forced her to seek a milder climate. She returned to New York with two of her daughters for a time before settling in England where William would often visit on business trips.

Their third daughter Marjory was born during one of these visits but sadly, Queen's health never allowed her to return to Colorado Springs. She passed away at the age of forty-four and was laid to rest beside her beloved General at Evergreen Cemetery.

Today, their love story remains one of the earliest and most enduring in Colorado Springs. The legacy of Queen and William's deep and enduring love continues to be remembered by the community, making their story a cherished part of the city's history.

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