Through the decades, Aspen's social fabric has been woven with colorful characters, pioneers, brigands, magnates, yeomen, prostitutes, socialites, visionaries, and celebrities. All have contributed to—or been influenced by—the spirit of individuality this mountain town celebrates.

Some have risen to greatness in Aspen, building empires or realizing personal dreams. Others have lost fortunes, reputations or their lives. Ever since the first prospectors crossed the mountains into the Roaring Fork Valley the social dynamic has been vibrant and captivating—the stuff of legend.