DEL NORTE— In the spring of 2016, longtime residents of Del Norte grieved the loss of local architect Mark Jones. Jones was locally known for his continued work on restoring buildings in downtown Del Norte and in neighboring communities such as Creede. Jones was best known for his work on the historical Windsor Hotel. On Saturday, May 20, the community came together to pay homage to the late architect and dedicated a large mural in the courtyard of the Windsor to his memory.
Jones passed away suddenly after a short battle with Hantavirus. The architect was in the midst of several projects including two buildings in Del Norte and one in Creede. The Del Norte Public Library had also just procured his services to help in the expansion of the library. His death was one that affected the entire community and continues to today. Jones spearheaded the restoration of the Windsor Hotel in 1998 until it was finished several years later.
Saturday was bright and clear with a touch of remaining cold still in the air after days of rainy weather that had befallen the Valley. The courtyard outside of the Windsor Hotel was packed full of people who were close to Jones, many of whom spoke of memories and kind words for the architect. Flower arrangements provided were scattered along the entire length of the courtyard and added a splash of color and sweet aroma to the small space.
The courtyard completion was made possible by donations from local friends and businesses, with matching funds by Mark’s sister, Connie Jones Pillsbury. Dr. Raymond and Barbara Culp gave an additional gift of a monumental mural. The large eight by 16-foot mural was placed on the wall depicting the long history of the town of Del Norte in its twisting colors and forms; “Legendary Del Norte” was painted by professional Colorado artist Charles Ewing. A plaque, recently installed, hung nearby on the south-facing wall adorned with roses that showed Jones’ profile and the dedication of the courtyard in his memory.
Jones Pillsbury made the official courtyard dedication, and Al Hibbs announced that the completion of the courtyard was the final step in the restoration of the hotel, a 24-year project that has been in progress since 1993. It was Barbara Culp who saved the Windsor Hotel from demolition that year by stepping in front of the wrecking equipment and calling her husband, who quickly purchased the hotel. A nonprofit corporation was then formed to begin its restoration.
Mark M. Jones, architect, joined the effort in 1998 and volunteered his time, talents and leadership skills as design architect and project manager for 18 years until his untimely death from Hantavirus in May of 2016. As he was quoted, “I won’t be around in 100 years, but the Windsor will be.”
Following the dedication of the courtyard and the Mark M. Jones memorial plaque, a buffet lunch was served by the Windsor staff in both the dining room and the new courtyard. The completion of the courtyard and the addition of the spectacular mural opens the door to many expanded uses of the outdoor area for local residents, guests and visitors to Del Norte. The event was hosted by the board members of the Windsor Restoration Association and the Windsor Hotel.
The Windsor invites everyone to come and see the mural, enjoy some lunch or dinner and stay for a historical treat.