This book tells the very unique story of the early development of the Colorado Springs' area and how photography of the period documented its rapid growth. It examines the work of McClure, a supremely gifted but relatively unknown Denver-based photographer whose images brought to life the area he loved. Those familiar with William Henry Jackson will understand the immense fortune McClure enjoyed as one of Jackson's assistants for 20 years.

And while the imprint of Jackson on McClure is unmistakable, Louis Charles McClure went on to establish himself as a photographer's photographer, mastering the arts of composition and natural light. The results were stunning and his work in the Springs and Manitou, as well as his images of the Short Line and Midland Railroads, is a testament to the vision of their founders.