Wayne Aspinall
Role
Colorado Congressman who gave dedication speech for Administration Building
Dates of Involvement
June 24, 1967
Context
Congressman Wayne Aspinall was chosen to deliver the opening speech at the dedication ceremony of Beaver Meadows Visitor Center on June 24, 1967. In this speech, “Parks & People: Past, Present and Future” Aspinall discusses the friction between conservationists goals in contrast with the public accessibilty to the parks, an issue which would plague Mission 66’s legacy. A full transcription of his speech can be seen in the attached link.
He also recommends that the Headquarters Building be dedicated to Enos Mills’ memory. In October of 1967, the acting Superintendent requested that they forgo naming the entire structure after Mills, but instead name the auditorium “Mills Auditorium.” Proposed plaque text can be seen in the attached document.
Education
Aspinall studied at the University of Denver until World War I, at which point he enlisted in the war and served as a corporal staff sergeant in the Air Service of the Signal Corps. After the war, he returned to University of Denver where he graduated in 1919. He continued his work in law and graduated from Denver Law School in 1925 and began practicing in Palisade, CO the same year.
