Sarah Pennington

Sarah Pennington, born in Kentucky during the Civil War, was one of the first African American women to own a cabin at Lincoln Hills. Her property, located at 106 Emory Road, was built between 1928 and 1930 and stands as one of the earliest acquisitions in the Lincoln Hills subdivision.

As recorded in the 1928 Lincoln Hills deed manifest, Sarah Pennington, a resident of Colorado Springs, became a seasonal visitor to this unique retreat created for African Americans. Likely born into slavery, Sarah’s journey to Colorado remains unclear, but by 1930, she lived at 408 South Wasatch Street in Colorado Springs with her husband, Wash Pennington, and several boarders. She worked as a servant for a local dentist, Edwin Rodger Neeper, while contributing to the vibrant community of Lincoln Hills.

The cabin Sarah built in 1928 was a single-story bungalow with a prominent partial front porch, embodying both simplicity and strength. Her efforts to establish a seasonal retreat reflect her resilience and pioneering spirit during a time of immense societal challenges.



Today, Sarah Pennington’s cabin serves as a lasting testament to her legacy, representing the courage and determination of those who sought refuge and community at Lincoln Hills. Her story continues to inspire, highlighting the vital contributions of women in shaping this historic haven for African Americans.