The Centennial Celebration of Cañon City was marked with many different activities, events, and contests. One such event was a beard growing contest as part of the observance. It was put on by the Cañon City Jaycee Chapter with Rob Sandner as chairman. Those that grew beards were members of the Royal Order of Brothers of the Brush. Those that did not wish to participate could purchase and wear a smooth skin permit.
(Right) Brothers of the Smooth Skin, 1972. Object ID: 2009.070.022; Royal Gorge Regional Museum & History Center collection
The Brothers of the Brush badges sold for $1.00 and the Brothers of the Smooth Skin badges sold for $2.00. Which badge would you have purchased?
Happy World Beard Day!
The information presented in this article is compiled using research conducted by the Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center.