October 27, 2010

Book on Cathedral Basilica’s history to be republished

By John Gleason

In anticipation of the 2012, 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the Archdiocese of Denver Office of Liturgy and Archives will publish a new copy of the book, “The Pinnacled Glory of the West.” 

Originally published in 1912, the book gives an extensive history of the cathedral that includes how it came into being, the people who labored to make it a reality and what it meant for the Catholics of a state then not even 40 years old.

In addition to the original story and pictures, which also gives the history of the parish in the decades before ground was broken for the cathedral, the reprint will tell more of the story of the cathedral as it served the faithful of Colorado during its first 100 years, said Karyl Klein, archdiocesan archivist.

“This will be an expanded version of the book published in 1912,” Klein said.  “It’ll contain all the original text and photos as well as an update section featuring events that have taken place at the cathedral since the dedication, new photos and some history on those who’ve served as rectors.”

“The Pinnacled Glory of the West” was originally the work of then-rector Father Hugh L. McMenamin. 

“He was right there, involved in the process from the very beginning,” Klein said. “He provides a first-hand narrative you couldn’t get any other way.”

The 10-year writing project began with the cathedral ground breaking in 1902.  Four years later the cornerstone was laid and in 1911 the spires were capped.  Dedication of the cathedral took place on Oct. 27, 1912.

Designed by noted Detroit architect Leon Coquard, the cathedral features intricately designed stained glass windows, the work of F.X. Zettler Royal Bavarian Art Institute of Munich, Germany. The marble which was used for altars, statues and Communion rail came from the world famous quarry in Carrara, Italy.

Topics the original publication explores include the cathedral’s architecture, art, chimes and dedication day—when tens of thousands of people marched in the street in celebration of completion of the project.  The book also contains a section devoted to the building committee and other generous citizens of the city who were contributors to the project, among them John K. Mullen, George Cottrell and William Horan.

Donning Company of Virginia Beach, Va., is the publisher. The company, which specializes in historical books, has published 19 books dealing with various historical aspects of Colorado.
Since 2007, the cathedral has been undergoing extensive renovation and remodeling in anticipation for the centennial celebration.  Republication of the book will help defray the cost of the work.  Klein said that even though the book won’t be available until May 2012, pre-orders are now being taken.

“It will be a limited edition so people don’t want to wait too long,” she said.  “Plans call for a run of 500 copies to be printed, which isn’t a very large number. And remember, we’re anticipating orders from parishes and schools—announcements went into church bulletins last week and we’re already getting calls.  We’re also looking for an angel who would like to assist in underwriting the publication cost.”
Klein said that due to the historical significance of the book, copies will also be made available to the public libraries and the state historical society.

Orders are now being taken for “The Pinnacled Glory of the West.”  Cost of the book is $24.95; $20 for orders placed before Dec. 17.  Call 303-520-9986 to place an order or e-mail karyl.klein@archden.org.