ial story --- a story that has become legendary because of its myriad of extraordinary people. First there was a gold rush, and then a silver rush, and the city of Leadville blossomed at an elevation of over 10,000 feet amidst some of the loftiest mountains in North America. There were stories of rags to riches, and riches to rags. Murder, sin, and scandals were commonplace. Within this unique community were colorful characters of all kinds --- and this is their story.