Annual Emma Crawford coffin races in Manitou Springs going on for 28 years
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Emma Crawford coffin races made a comeback Saturday afternoon this past weekend.
2022 marked the 28th race after its inception in 1995. Along with fun and providing economic support for small businesses and tourism, the coffin races have been a long standing tradition in Manitou. They also carry a lot of history.
Emma Crawford came to Manitou Springs in 1889 searching for a cure for her tuberculosis. She fell in love with the mountain town and her dying wish was to be buried on top of Red Mountain. Unfortunately, Emma succumbed to her illness in 1891. Her lover, William Hildebrand, honored her wishes. With the help of eleven other townspeople, William carried Emma’s coffin up the 7,200 foot slope and buried her near the summit of Red Mountain.
In 1929, after years of harsh winters and spring rains, Emma and her coffin came racing down the mountainside. The young children who happened upon her remains found only the casket handles, a nameplate, and a few bones.
Every year participants dress up in costume, dress up coffins, and race them down Manitou Ave.
The coffin races followed an annual parade along Manitou Ave. With road closures lasting approximately from 9 a.m. through 4 p.m.
