The star in Palmer Lake has shined for almost as long as many people have lived in Monument, Colorado. It shines during tough times for America, times of grieving, or during this Christmas season, constantly giving us a sense of hope, but most have no idea about the origin.

The idea of the star started with a Mr.B.E. Jack, in the summer of 1935, who came up with the idea on an early morning while driving into Palmer Lake. He saw the Sundance Mountain over Palmer Lake and came up with a way to light up the land during holiday seasons, and to also bring people to this tiny town.

Jack went and shared this idea with many, that agreed to offer their help. Construction was left up to four men, Bert Sloan, Richard Wolfe, C.E. Rader, and Byron Medlock. These men took time over the next few weeks discussing and drawing up plans for the star.

Sundance mountain was difficult to built on because of shrubbery and the 60 degree slope, but everyone agreed it would be the best place to put the star. Sundays and late evenings were spent working on the star, since many of the men worked 6 day weeks. The base of the star was constructed out of steel and wood. Holes were dug to keep the star in the ground, sometimes using concrete to keep it in place.

Many townspeople started helping with the building and the star was finally outlined by late fall. With most of the volunteer labor being stretched out, Sloan needed funding for the rest of the star.

Sloan was elected head of the Palmer Lake City Council. And with his help donations were accepted and put towards the construction of the star.

Final adjustments were made to the star in mid December in 1935 and the star was finally lit. Ever since 1936 the star has continued to be lit from December 1-January 1 and on memorial day weekends. Hopefully it will continue to be lit for a long time ahead of us.