William Pitts

William Pitts, born to an enslaved woman and her enslaver, moved to Colorado from Missouri in 1919 to support his son, who was being treated for wartime injuries at Fitzsimons Army Medical Hospital. Tragically, his son passed away, but Pitts remained in Colorado, creating a legacy for his family.

A skilled carpenter with years of experience building cabins for white resorts, Pitts saw an opportunity at Lincoln Hills. He purchased land and constructed several cabins, including the Zephyr View Cabin, which still stands today as part of the Pitts family legacy. Nearby, he also built the Rendezvous Cabin and the Shangri-La Cabin.

The Zephyr View Cabin, like many in Lincoln Hills, was designed as a retreat, embodying the ideal of escaping urban life to embrace the natural beauty of Colorado. Pitts’ work not only contributed to the Lincoln Hills community but also preserved a legacy of resilience and craftsmanship that endures to this day.

Letter from William Pitts 

William Pitts, the original contractor for Lincoln Hills houses, writes to the Lincoln Hills Company to describe his experience at Lincoln Hills. He also states that he is available to provide his services to others looking to build in the area. (DPL Digital Library)