Independence Monument

Independence Monument, a freestanding sandstone pillar in Colorado National Monument near Grand Junction, is both a striking geologic remnant and one of the park’s best-known landmarks. Much of its identity comes from John Otto, the monument’s first custodian, who named local features and in 1911 made the first ascent, raising a flag on Flag Day with one given to him by President William Howard Taft. Otto later repeated the climb on Independence Day using hand-cut holds and pipe ladders, some traces of which remain. The tower also became part of his personal story when he married Beatrice Farnham nearby, and its annual July 4 flag-raising continues as a climbing tradition.

Fruita, Colorado · United States