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When the fossil beds face the danger of impending development, a powerful grassroots campaign rallies to protect the fossils. This “rush-to-the-finish-line” political battle was followed closely by the news media.
February 1969 Colorado senator Gordon Allott presents a bill proposing the national monument to the Senate, Senate Bill 912. The first version of this bill was submitted in 1964.
May 23, 1969 Estella Leopold learns that almost half of the land (the Gregg Tract) proposed for the monument is under contract with the Park Land Company. 
Estella Leopold and Bettie Willard hire Victor Yannacone, a lawyer from New York, and he arrives in Denver.
May 28, 1969 At the urging of Victor Yannacone, Estella Leopold and Beatrice Willard put together a group of “…the most prestigious scientists and civic leaders in the community…” to form the Defenders of Florissant, Inc..
May 29, 1969 Senate hearing for Senate Bill 912. Testimony is heard in Colorado Springs from many concerned scientists, citizens, local government officials, and activist groups. “...as a page of Earth history from the dim past it is priceless. There isn’t anything like it.” – Dr. Harry MacGinitie
July 9, 1969 Federal District Court in Denver hears the Defenders’ case for a restraining order against development on the land until Congress has made a decision on monument status for the fossil beds. Judge Chilson denies the case.
July 29, 1969 Judge Chilson hears the Defenders’ case again after his first ruling was appealed by Victor Yannacone and the Lamms (Colorado lawyers for the case). Judge Chilson denies the case again. After a second denial, the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals agrees to hear the case in a rare same-day hearing. Chief Justice Alfred P. Murrah hears the case and tells the the Florissant lawyers he will sit on his decision until Congress acts!
August 20, 1969 President Richard Nixon signs the bill that establishes Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument for future generations to study and enjoy! 
First 50 Years as a Monument
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Last updated: November 5, 2022