Includes bibliographical references (pages 231) and index.

In 1965, Dana Crawford, a stylish Ivy Leaguer and Junior Leaguer, convinced a group of wealthy investors to buy a block of wobbly buildings on Jack Kerouac���s Skid Row, which she renovated into Larimer Square. Fifty years later, it is still one of Denver���s most popular destinations. Dana���s passion for preservation, for giving new economic life to historic buildings, has become a catalyst throughout the city. With vision, brilliance and a ferocious determination, she has revitalized the grimy, ������neglected soul of lower downtown Denver. But it���s been difficult. Saving the 1890 Oxford Hotel dragged her into bankruptcy twice (Chapter 22 she joked). She found an old flour mill, a mattress factory, even a hobo camp to redevelop. Big money had stalled around Union Station for 40 years, until Dana���s leadership lifted the jewel onto Denver���s crown. Her partners reverentially named the elegant Crawford Hotel after her, the second building in the city to bear her name. Dubbed ���The Dragon Lady���by newspapers in the 60s and 70s, this colorful character has attracted endless visitors, including Lady Bird Johnson. Invitations to her salon-style dinner parties are just as coveted as are details about the skinny-dipping hilarity at her surprise 46th birthday party. Unrivaled in courage, style and grace, Dana Crawford has resurrected the soul of the Mile High City.