On closing day, April 11, 1971, this ballad was handed out by the Aspen Skiing Corp. I happened to be one of those in line enjoying the occasion and nabbed a final ride up such a unique and historic lift, which was, back then, the fastest way to the Sundeck and main ski portal for the mountain. Please enjoy and remember to by 7 p.m. Tuesday.<\/p>\n
The Last Run of No. 1, April 11, 1971<\/p>\n
She stands alone, so long and tall,<\/p>\n
Right above famed Ruthie’s Run.<\/p>\n
She’s never had a proper name,<\/p>\n
So they just called her Number One.<\/p>\n
She was first built in ’46,<\/p>\n
And has a famous past.<\/p>\n
She carried Roch Cup racers up.<\/p>\n
Now her days are numbered fast.<\/p>\n
“Progress,” they shout, “tear the old girl down.”<\/p>\n
“Install double chairs, then more can ski.”<\/p>\n
But when Aspen has no Number One,<\/p>\n
It’ll never seem the same to me.<\/p>\n
All the time I’ve spent swayin’ in those chairs,<\/p>\n
Waiting to schuss down Ruthie’s Run,<\/p>\n
Will be just golden memories,<\/p>\n
When I think of Aspen and Number One.<\/p>\n
(A big thank-you to the Aspen Historical Society for finding this piece of history for me.)<\/p>\n
Heidi H. Hoffmann<\/p>\n
Aspen<\/p>\n