A Legacy Rooted in Colorado
William H. Whitsell holds a unique place in Colorado’s history. Born on February 24, 1866, in Central City, he is recognized as the first Black man born in the state. His great-grandson, Julian Cary, proudly shares his family’s story.
“If you Google ‘first Black male child born in Colorado,’ you get William Whitsell,” Cary said. The Whitsell family’s journey began when William’s father, James Whitsell, moved to Colorado after being emancipated. He worked in Gilpin County’s silver mines, laying the foundation for generations to come.
William’s birth marked a milestone. “In that time, there was no Black child born in the hospital,” Cary explained. “They were born elsewhere.” By 1870, the family moved to Denver, where William would later play a key role in shaping the city.
Building Denver’s Foundation
William Whitsell grew up to become a skilled brick mason. His work helped construct parts of downtown Denver, leaving a lasting impact on the city’s skyline. “William was very instrumental in building some of downtown Denver,” Cary said.
The Whitsell family’s contributions didn’t stop there. Over eight or nine generations, they’ve built a legacy of hard work and community pride. “We work very hard to honor our name and keep it going,” Cary shared. “We instill that in our children and grandchildren.”
Jessie Cary, Julian’s wife, has embraced the family’s history. “This history belongs to my husband and grandchildren,” she said. “You all honor this history because you are the first and only in Colorado with this history.”
Honoring a Trailblazer
In recent years, the Whitsell family has worked to preserve William’s legacy. In 2023, a park in Green Valley Ranch was dedicated in his honor. “We’re trying to piece this together and really hold it together,” Jessie said.
The following year, William was inducted into the Blacks in Colorado Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place at the Blair-Caldwell Library, where some of his records are stored. Cary’s oldest sister, Janice, played a key role in uncovering these historical artifacts.
“Janice and my grandmother used to talk about it,” Cary recalled. “A lot of those things belonged to William and James and are now in the Black history museum.”
A Lasting Impact
William Whitsell’s legacy continues to inspire. In 2004, then-Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper declared February 24 as “William H. Whitsell Family Reunion Day.” The proclamation celebrates his birthday and honors his contributions to the community.
“I feel very proud to know that my family was born and raised here,” Cary said. “They were good, law-abiding citizens, and my family still keeps it that way today.”
The Whitsell family’s story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and pride. From building Denver’s skyline to preserving their history, their legacy remains a vital part of Colorado’s identity.
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