Under a glow of flickering streetlights and the cold October air, downtown in Pueblo transformed into a living tapestry of history and legend. On October 11, 2025, the city’s Historical Ghost Walk invited attendees to wander through stories that go far beyond the grave, where cobblestone streets and shadowed alleyways whispered tales of triumph, tragedy, and resilience.
Attendees like student Lexia Valdez, described the walk as, “eerily fascinating, it felt like the past was walking right alongside us.” Families moved at a leisurely pace, children pointing out details along the historic route.
Sponsored by the Domestic Violence Task Force (DVTF), the walk led participants through the history of Pueblo’s most storied sites, including the James Orman Mansion, Central High School, and other historic landmarks. Along the way, actors brought figures such as Rosina Fabrizio, Carrie Clyde Holly, Charles “Pretty Boy” Floyd, and Ephraim Goins to life, blending legend with carefully researched history.
Jennifer Chavez, the president of the DVTF said, “The Ghost Walk connects people not just to Pueblo’s history, but to the importance of community awareness and support.” “It’s a chance to remember those who came before us, and to honor those still fighting unseen battles today.”
The DVTF, a coalition of local agencies including law enforcement, Mariposa Shelter, Juniper, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), and UC Health’s forensic nurse examiners. These organizations provide education, advocacy, and direct support for victims of domestic violence and interpersonal violence. Proceeds from the Ghost Walk directly support these efforts, offering crucial resources to organizations with limited capacity.
Chavez highlighted the connection between Pueblo’s history and community resilience. “There are stories dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s showing the incredible lengths people went to survive and protect their families,” she said.
Chavez talked about many stories, one in particular about a woman who during a devastating flood, faked her and her child’s deaths to escape an abusive relationship — a testament to courage and ingenuity in the face of danger. Another, in the Salt Creek community, became a pillar of support by caring for her neighbors, delivering babies, and running a small store from her home, embodying resilience in a community with limited resources.
Among the captivating performances was Tony Pinto, portrayed by Connor Bond, an actor with a personal connection to the character. Drawing on stories and artifacts from his great-grandfather, medals, uniforms, and firsthand family accounts, the actor brought history vividly to life.
“I really wanted this performance to have meaning… this wasn’t just a character, this was my heritage, my family,” Bond explained. His portrayal combined historical accuracy with moments of dramatic audience engagement, like lightly startling participants to convey the intensity of a drill sergeant’s presence, while keeping the storytelling safe and interactive.
Bond also discovered new sides of his own family history, learning from attendees that his great-grandfather had been one of very few Purple Heart recipients at the time. “It’s pretty incredible… to show newer generations a piece of our family and Pueblo’s history,” he said. Audience reactions ranged from wide-eyed amazement to laughter, including a memorable moment with a little girl whose random, quirky responses still make him smile.
The Ghost Walk is designed to be family-friendly and accessible, covering roughly a mile and a half of South Victoria Avenue.. Lanterns cast long shadows along the route, and the crisp night air carried faint scents of autumn leaves, mingling with the quiet murmurs of fascinated participants.
Maricela Diaz, a teacher in attendance, noted, “I never realized downtown had so many layers of stories. It really makes you appreciate the people who built this community.”
After more than a decade of involvement, Chavez described the most meaningful part of the event, “It’s about showing the good in our community. Pueblo has a rich history, and today we have amazing people continuing that legacy.
As visitors dispersed into the night, the glow of lanterns fading behind them, the Ghost Walk left more than just memories. It offered a glimpse into the past, a celebration of resilience, and a reminder that Pueblo’s history, and its community, is alive in every corner of the city.
Chavez hopes attendees leave with a dual takeaway: an appreciation for Pueblo’s history and a deeper understanding of the DVTF’s mission.
“This promotes a safer community through education and awareness. It shows that we are a coordinated, collaborative community, one that supports survivors while connecting people to our heritage,” said Chavez.
