Pikes Peak

Today marks the 200th anniversary of the sighting of Pikes Peak in 1806.

Shown on the right is a 1902 lithograph by Illinois artist Edgar Spier Cameron (1862-1944) which appears on a recent US postcard issued to mark the occasion. It depicts Capt. Zebulon Montgomery Pike and three members of his expedition standing on a mountaintop looking at the summit that would be named in his honor.

Noted for its imposing appearance and for the majestic views provided from its 14,110-foot summit, Pikes Peak is a popular tourist destination near Colorado Springs, Colo. It was declared a national historic landmark in 1961.

According to a USPS news release, "As the expedition was crossing the plains in mid-November, Pike became intrigued by a mountain 'which appeared like a small blue cloud' in the distance."

Although Pike never actually climbed it — harsh weather conditions turned him back — the mountain that had captured his attention became commonly known as "Pikes Peak."

For more on Pike and his expedition, click here.