Display of Seven Antique Nails used 1891 by Colorado Springs Entrepreneur before he Struck it Rich.



Winfield Scott Stratton (1848–1902) was an American prospector, capitalist and philanthropist who used his wealth and influence to help make Colorado Springs, Colorado a modern city during his lifetime. At his death, he had financed most of the Colorado Springs government buildings, the trolley transportation system, a major league baseball team, and a charitable trust which is still in operation today.

By 1872, he was living in Colorado Springs working as a carpenter during the winters and prospecting in the mountains the rest of the year. He discovered and filed claim on the Independence Lode near Victor Colorado on July 4, 1891. It was a fantastically rich gold mine whose yield allowed him to become Cripple Creek’s first millionaire by 1894. Both Victor and Cripple Creek are in the next county west of Colorado Springs.

For sale is a framed display of seven antique square nails mounted on a burlap backing with a brass plate engraved:
“Used by
WINFIELD SCOTT STRATTON
At 8 W. Moreno In 1891”
The reverse of the display has a photograph circa 1953 of the modest two-story house with an automobile from 1930s or 40s parked next to the house. The photo also shows the front of a car parked on the street which looks to be a 1953 or so model to me. This photo is carefully taped with masking tape to the display backing paper.

Outer frame Measurement: 10.75" x 8.125" x 1.5".
Display backing paper has been torn in transportation.

Thanks for looking!