Credit: Summit Historical Society
Kathleen “Kate” Briggle came to Summit County from Canada in the 1890s and became involved in the music scene as a piano teacher, organist, and musical director. She contributed greatly to the cultural community through her passion in music.
Kathleen Trotter was born in Ontario, Canada. The first documented mention of her in Summit County, Colorado was her marriage to prominent Summit County resident, William Harrison Briggle on January 18, 1896.
At the time, her husband had an established office located in his brother-in-laws bank where he was the treasurer and clerk. In the early 20th century he served as Breckenridge mayor, county commissioner, town council member, and mine owner.
The Briggle’s lived at 104 North Harris Street in Breckenridge where they hosted many social events and music performances, recitals, and “musicales”. They had no children of their own, however, Kathleen actively taught piano to many Breckenridge youth. The Summit County Journal reported in February 1908 that Mrs. Briggle had “wonderful executive production talents” to highlight her students’ skills.
Their house on North Harris Street was preserved by Summit Historical Society in the late 1980’s for the public to know of this pioneer family. The Briggle historic house was transferred to the Town of Breckenridge in 2015.
Kathleen Trotter Briggle was of the upper class of Breckenridge Society and was active in society events as expected, but she also contributed greatly to the cultural environment with her teaching and musical skills.
We honor Kate as our 2024 Woman of Distinction: Then.
