1918-1919 Influenza Epidemic : Boulder, Colorado

This is an on-going project to uncover what kind of impact the influenza outbreak had on the communities around Boulder before and after the end of World War I. I am currently compiling a list of those who died of “Spanish Influenza” and pneumonia beginning with the first outbreaks in September 1918 through May 1919 as cases tapered off. Pneumonia was often a secondary infection and complication of the flu. Because it was so frequently listed in combination with influenza as a cause of death, I am including in my compilation those who died of pneumonia as well.

Local newspapers are a good starting point so that I can get a general understanding of events during this time period. Names of the deceased are initially coming from funeral records, cemetery interment records, in addition to newspaper obituaries. The following lists include all the interment records from Green Mountain Cemetery, and I am currently extracting details from the Howe Mortuary records and the Boulder Tribune. Additional mortuary records and newspapers will gradually be included in the list.

My goal is to identify all those who succumbed to this frightening disease and then put their deaths into the context of the larger events in Boulder County and the country. I also plan to do a short genealogical study on as many people as possible and follow what happened to the families. Many of the early deaths were soldiers who were shipped home for burial, so I hope to be able to find the their final resting places.

The list will gradually expand as more names are uncovered. Initially I will only post names and dates, so if you are related to anyone listed, or have information to share, please email me for more details. Names are given both chronologically and alphabetically. Research is continuing so the name/date lists are most likely not up to date.